Vale Life Summer 2009 by Good Life Publishing

VALE LIFE SUMMER ISSUE 2009

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G L A M O R G A N ’S P R E M I E R L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

A TASTE OF SUMMER DELI DELIGHTS ACROSS THE VALE, WE VISIT PORTHCAWL, SUMMER STYLE, FABULOUS FOOD & OUR BEST COMPETITION EVER RESTAURANT REVIEWS, WHAT’S ON, BUSINESS, SHOPPING

THERE’S MORE ONLINE WWW . VALELIFE . CO . UK

ART, BOOKS, STYLE, HEALTH, HOMES AND MUCH MORE PLUS

JEANS MADE IN H E AV E N

HAVA ALSO STOCKISTS OF FENN WRIGHT MANSON, INWEAR, AVOCA, NANCYMAC, OLVI’S, CHARAS, MARILYN MOORE AND BETTY JACKSON 2

VANA H AVANA 87 EASTGATE, COWBRIDGE CF71 7AA 01446 774807 info@havanaboutique.co.uk www.havanaboutique.co.uk

the st. david’s hotel & spa | cardiff

Go on... Spoil Yourself this summer at the marine spa

per person

normally £160 * Monday - Thursday, day package only and subject to availability.

Package includes: • Full Body Massage (55 mins) or Espa Facial (55 mins) • Two 30 minute taster treatments (choose from a facial, back neck & shoulder massage, scalp massage, salt scrub or file & polish) • Full use of the extensive facilities, including the award winning marine salted hydrotherapy pools. • A three course lunch in Waves with breathtaking views of the bay.

Call 029 2031 3083 Quote: "Spoilt for Choice" The St. David's Hotel & Spa, Havannah Street, Cardiff, CF10 5SD

www.principal-hayley.com/thestdavids

WELCOME It’s been a funny old time hasn’t it? If the credit crunch hasn’t sent us into a pit of depression, then the threat of a swine flu pandemic did it’s best to bring us down. There’s something to be said for the Welsh stiff upper lip and the fact that we hunker down and work together to get through tougher times.

From my travels across the Vale, this definitely seems to be the case. They say that out of something bad, comes something good. Perhaps this is the good?

IN THIS ISSUE

You’re probably looking at my photograph and thinking ‘why the headphones?’ We were lucky enough to fly to Hurst House on the Marsh, Laugharne recently, courtesy of Veritair (you can read all about that in our sister publication City Life). If you’d like to experience this amazing trip yourself, you can enter our competition on page 42 – it’s our best competition ever. Good luck!

N EWS

Here at Vale Life we’ll do our best to lift those spirits with with interesting features on the people living and working in the area. In this issue, we take a trip to Porthcawl. More commonly known perhaps for funfairs and candy floss, Porthcawl has a lot going for it and, with the promise of a big regeneration programme, there are even better things on the horizon.

P ERFECT S ETTING –

W HERE C ARING C OMES F IRST – A PRIL C OMPLETE C ARE S OLUTIONS

Now that the warmer weather’s finally here (hurrah!) we can head to the shops which are full of colourful clothes, shoes and bags, to adorn our bodies and paraphernalia for our homes and gardens. Let’s give the shops our support and spend what we can.

C OMPETITIONS –

M USIC

AND

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HOT OFF THE

AND PRODUCED IN THE

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AND

IS PROUD TO BE INDEPENDENT

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GARDENING TIPS FROM

B OB P RIDDLE

P RIDE

THE EXCELLENT CUISINE OF

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D ESIGNER D ESIRES –

GRAB A DESIGNER BARGAIN

–

YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO !

CONTEMPORARY JEWELLERY ON

16 18

THERE ’ S MORE TO THIS TOWN THAN THE FUNFAIR

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22 24

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TRANSFORM YOUR HOME WITH FLAIR

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SEASCAPE ARTIST ,

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BUSINESS AND SOCIAL EVENTS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

AWARD - WINNING WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

THE R EAL D EAL – W ENDY H OPKINS D ELI D ELIGHTS –

BEAT THE RECESSION WITH AFFORDABLE OFFICE SPACE

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OPENS NEW OFFICE IN

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DELICIOUS , MOUTHWATERING PRODUCE FROM ACROSS THE

T HE L AST W ORD – D ANNY W ILLIS ,

46 48

MONTHS

A ROUND UP OF BUSINESS NEWS AROUND THE

VALE S OCIAL L IFE –

VALE L IFE

MAKE - UP , FASHION , ART AND STYLISH INTERIORS

D ESIRE –

B USINESS –

E XPOSURE –

KEEP FIT AND HEALTHY FROM THE INSIDE OUT

T HE G REAT I NDOORS – S UMMER VALE S TYLE –

THE PLACE TO GET ALL YOUR SKI AND SNOWBOARD GEAR

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A SALON YOU CAN TRUST

GORGEOUS LINGERIE AND SWIMWEAR TO DIE FOR

S NOW B USINESS –

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IS WRITTEN, DESIGNED

R ESTAURANT R EVIEWS – OF

PRESS

DATES FOR YOUR SUMMER DIARY

WAVELENGTH – VALE L IFE VA L E L I F E

VALE L IFE

REVIEWS OF THE LATEST

VALE G ARDENS – S UMMER

J UST

Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts Editor jennifer@valelife.co.uk

VALE –

FROM THE

62 VALE 64

ENTREPRENEUR AND CURRY AFFICIANADO

WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE

WHO HAS SUPPORTED US OVER RECENT MONTHS .

O UR CONTRIBUTORS , OUR FAMILIES , OUR FRIENDS ( INCLUDING ALL THE NEW ONES WE HAVE MADE ) AND OUR ADVERTISERS - WITHOUT THEM VALE L IFE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE . W E HOPE YOU LIKE WHAT WE ’ VE PRODUCED AND WE ’ LL TRY TO MAKE EACH ISSUE EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST AND IF YOU HAVE A STORY THAT YOU ’ D LIKE TO SHARE , PLEASE GET IN TOUCH .

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Chilled tomato soup. New season chilled tomato essence, tomato tartare, tomato umami, Ton Farm summer flowers, soft herbs, extra virgin olive oil

THE MAGAZINE VALE LIFE SUMMER ISSUE 2009

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FREE

I N D E P E N D E N T

G L A M O R G A N ’S P R E M I E R L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

A TASTE OF SUMMER DELI DELIGHTS ACROSS THE VALE, WE VISIT PORTHCAWL, SUMMER STYLE, FABULOUS FOOD & OUR BEST COMPETITION EVER RESTAURANT REVIEWS, WHAT’S ON, BUSINESS, SHOPPING

THERE’S MORE ONLINE WWW . VALELIFE . CO . UK

T H E VA L E O F G L A M O R G A N ’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE Editor JENNIFER HOBBS-ROBERTS jennifer@valelife.co.uk ❧ Creative Director MARK ROBERTS mark@valelife.co.uk ❧ Studio PA U L S E S S I O N S studio@commediaonline.co.uk ❧ Web RICHARD BENNEWITH rich@commediaonline.co.uk ❧ Vale Life Cardiff House, Cardiff Road Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2AW ❧ Vale Life Website www.valelife.co.uk ❧ Telephone

0845 130 6452

PLUS A RT , B OOKS , S TYLE , HEALTH, HOMES AND MUCH MORE

Here at Vale Life, we are “Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent committed to quality. direction and skillful execution; it represents the The quote, to the right, sums up our philosophy. wise choice of many alternatives.” William Foster MISSED THE LAST ISSUE?

C AV E AT E M P T O R

YES IT’S FREE

We hold a small number of each issue in stock so if you’d like a pristine copy, please email jennifer@valelife.co.uk or telephone us. Hopefully we’ll have the issue you want (but we are unable to guarantee it). Each back issue costs £5 including postage and packing.

Vale Life cannot accept any responsibility for disputes between businesses featured in the magazine and their customers. Caveat emptor - let the buyer beware.

Vale Life is distributed free through a wide variety of outlets across the Vale of Glamorgan and beyond. Vale Life is given away free of charge on the understanding that we are happy for it to be lent, passed around, given to friends and generally read until it falls apart. At which point, you can recycle it and we’d be delighted if you did.

I M P O R TA N T YO U R E A D T H I S

We have made every effort to ensure that all information contained in Vale Life or on www.valelife.co.uk is correct and accurate. However, we accept no responsibility for any errors, omissions or claims from advertisers or businesses featured within the magazine and can offer no compensation for any loss, actual or perceived. NB

Please note, the opinions, thoughts, views or ideas expressed in Vale Life are strictly those of the authors.

G R E E N A S T H E VA L E

The pulp used in the production of the paper Vale Life is printed on is obtained from sustainably managed Scandinavian tree farms and utilises an elementary chlorine free bleaching process. SMALL(ISH) PRINT

© Copyright Vale Life 2009. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine (including adverts) may be reproduced in any shape or form (in whole or part) without the express written permission of the publishers. We take breach of copyright and theft of intellectual property extremely seriously and will sue at the drop of a croissant.

“Business is the very life blood of any community. Without business, villages have no heart, towns have no centre and cities have no soul.” Please support the businesses featured in Vale Life without them there’d be no Vale Life. ❧ 6 ❧

PA S S I O N AT E A B O U T T H E VA L E

We are independent. We live in the Vale. We are not a large publishing group pretending to be home grown. Vale Life magazine is written, designed and produced in the Vale of Glamorgan for the people of the Vale. USE IT OR LOSE IT

Business is the very life blood of any community. Without business, villages have no heart, towns have no centre and cities have no soul. Please support the businesses who advertise in Vale Life - without them there’d be no Vale Life magazine. SUBSCRIPTIONS

To guarantee your copy of Vale Life magazine, please send a cheque for £20 (for four issues) made payable to Vale Life. Visit www.valelife.co.uk for special subscriber discounts and more.

ADVERTISE IN VALE LIFE Did you know that you can promote your business in Vale Life to an audience of over 130,000 people? So, whether you’re a glamorous boutique promoting your new range or a local tradesperson looking for new business in the Vale and beyond, call 0845 130 6452 to discuss the opportunities. WE CAN DESIGN AND PRODUCE YO U R A DV E R T F O R YO U

There’s no denying the fact that first impressions count. With a beautiful professionally designed advert, you’re more likely to attract business. We can help. If you’d like to promote your business but feel that your current adverts are letting you down, give us a call on 0845 130 6452.

“Vale Life are always refreshingly creative in their approach to helping us with our advertising. They go the extra mile to promote our business.”

Harmonious Inviting Elegant

Willow Walk, Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7EE 01446 771234 email info@rflkitchens.com Please visit our new website at www.roomforlivingcowbridge.com

Emma & Awen, High Society, Cowbridge

CEREDWYN COTTAGE

JEANS MADE IN H E AV E N

4 star luxury, breathing fresh air into coastal living.

HAVANA

Situated on Colhugh Street, Llantwit Major a stone’s throw from the bustling village with its many quaint shops, cafés and restaurants. Just one mile to the beach and the breathtaking Heritage Coastline, stands this most charming 200 year old Welsh stone cottage. The cottage has been lovingly restored to reveal its Welsh stone walls and two original fireplaces by its owners Vicki Morgan and her business partner Kevin Hom Sing of Icos Building and Design Ltd. Vicki and Kevin started renovating the cottage just over a year ago and have transformed it into a masterpiece of sophisticated, warm cottage living. The whole cottage has been completely remodelled offering the following accommodation: Interior ♥ Large open plan sitting room with two original fireplaces ♥ Slate stone flooring to the whole of the ground floor ♥ Kitchen/dining room with utility ♥ Downstairs family bathroom ♥ Two double bedrooms (one bedroom with dressing area) ♥ Master bedroom offers en-suite shower room Exterior ♥ Enclosed landscaped garden with decking and lawn area ♥ Private off road parking for two vehicles

This is a rare opportunity to purchase a stunning cottage, full of character, in one of the Vale’s most desirable and sought after locations.

For Sale

ALSO STOCKISTS OF FENN WRIGHT MANSON, INWEAR, AVOCA, NANCYMAC, OLVI’S, CHARAS, MARILYN MOORE AND BETTY JACKSON 2

H AVA N A 87 EASTGATE, COWBRIDGE CF71 7AA 01446 774807 info@havanaboutique.co.uk www.havanaboutique.co.uk

This charming property is offered for sale at £255,000 Please call 0845 130 6452 or email jennifer@valelife.co.uk

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Ceredwyn Cottage. Home is where the heart is. Selling your property? If you are a homeowner and would like to feature your property in Vale Life please call 0845 130 6452 or email jennifer@valelife.co.uk for further information.

French Connection Nougat Great Plains Sticky Fingers Sandwich Chilli Pepper Religion Jewellery by Melinda Mulcahy ❧

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shop@brylsboutique.com

7 High Street, Barry CF62 7DZ

01446 748246

www.brylsboutique.com

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VALE LIFE ESSENTIAL DIRECTORY The essential directory for quality trades and businesses in the Vale of Glamorgan.

I N T R O D U C I N G T H E VA L E L I F E E S S E N T I A L D I R E C T O RY

You can promote your business in Vale Life for as little as £45 per issue... that’s less than £4 per week! If you’re a tradesperson looking for new business in the Vale and beyond, call 0845 130 6452 today. All advertisements will also be included on www.valelife.co.uk

Benefits of advertising ■ Promote your business for less than £4 per week ■ Vale Life is free and is available right across the county ■ Reach an affluent readership who require your services ■ Beautifully designed directory Want to advertise in Cardiff? Ask about advertising in our sister publication City Life ❧ 7 ❧

Below is a sample of the advert style that will be appearing in the magazine. Your Business Trade Your Business Name Information about your trade or your business details here plus a description of the services that you offer. 01234 567890 www.yourwebaddresshere.co.uk

NEWS FROM THE VALE IF YOU HAVE A STORY WHICH YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE, PLEASE CONTACT VALE LIFE FONMON

The Vale of Glamorgan Agricultural Show I can’t think of a better way to spend a Wednesday in August and this year will be no exception as the Vale of Glamorgan Agricultural Show hits the grounds of Fonmon Castle again on the 19th August from 8.30am to 8pm. Vale Life were delighted to have had a marquee at last year’s show. For those of you who went and popped their heads in, ours was the African inspired mirage conjured up by those incredibly talented guys, Andy and Peter of Hamptons in Penarth. Last year’s event was a bit soggy but we’re all hoping for better weather this year and expect visitor numbers to be well up on previous years as the momentum builds.

It’s a jolly good day out for all of the family with trade stands galore, food hall, craft fair, home produce, agricultural and horticultural. This year’s attractions include Katy Cropper Ducks and Dogs Display, Circus Workshops, Punch and Judy Shows, Road Train and Laser Clay Pigeon Shooting. We’ve already worked out the theme for our Vale Life marquee and it promises to be very memorable indeed! If you’d like to sponsor the event or represent your business at the show, there are various ways of getting involved. Check out how on www.valeofglamorganshow.co.uk See you there! For more information contact Mrs Nicola Gibson on 01446 710099 vale.show@btinternet.com www.valeofglamorganshow.co.uk

“It’s a jolly good day out for all of the family with trade stands galore, food hall, craft fair, home produce, agricultural and horticultural.” GLANUSK

Glanusk Estate to host international polo event Join St Davids Polo Club at the glamorous Glanusk Polo Summer Party on Saturday 18th July. Enjoy a fabulous day out including exciting exhibition polo and partying with friends in the beautiful surroundings of Glanusk Estate along the stunning River Usk. St Davids Polo Club, organisers of Glanusk Polo, promise to make this event an annual Welsh social occasion to be remembered. Ticket options are available to suit all tastes and pockets from a family picnic, private box or club box with friends or colleagues to the luxurious pavilion hospitality marquee. Glanusk Polo is attracting guests from all across the UK with a good mix of businesses, friends and family groups, many of whom have never watched polo but enjoy a good social gathering. This is the perfect opportunity to dress up and unwind.

Supporting the Prince’s Trust, the Legge-Bourke family have kindly opened their beautiful private estate for this inaugural charity polo match between teams representing Wales and South America. Set in 400 acres of private parkland within a beautiful estate, which has been in existence for over 200 years Glanusk Polo promises to be a day to remember.

“Glanusk Polo is the perfect opportunity to dress up and unwind in this magnificent 400 acre estate.” ❧ 8 ❧

www.glanuskpolo.com For more information please contact Geoff Lloyd St Davids Polo Club 34 Cathedral Road Cardiff CF11 9LE 029 2066 6091 geoff@stdavidspolo.co.uk www.stdavidspolo.co.uk

WICK

Playgroup get top marks! Following their recent Estyn inspection, Wick and District Playgroup was awarded the highest possible score of a 1 in all 15 of the report categories. The Inspector spent two mornings with the Playgroup in March and assessed the standards achieved by the children in the seven areas of learning including the quality of education provided by the Playgroup. The inspector commented in the report that “Wick and District Playgroup is exceptionally well managed and led” and “the staff are extraordinarily experienced and very well qualified.” She continued by saying “the children’s behaviour is exemplary” and found them to be “happy and confident” while demonstrating “excellent independent thinking and learning skills”. She also commented that “the children’s Welsh language development was good with outstanding features.” The Inspector also felt that the bond between the adults in the playgroup, the children in their care, together with that of their parents was also outstanding.

Wick and District playgroup was particularly commended for the projects and work done in the Wildlife and Learning Garden. The fact was highlighted that the playgroup became the first in Wales to obtain the Eco Schools International Green Flag award, resulting in them becoming the first Fairtrade playgroup in the country.

COWBRIDGE

A great family day out at Warren Mill farm What better way to spend an afternoon with the children than a day out at Warren Mill Farm, which has a selection of friendly farm animals including rabbis, guinea pigs, goats, pigs, donkeys, ponies and lots more. There’s also a play area and picnic area. The Fishery is a four acre natural mill pond which is well stocked with a selection of course fish which include carp, tench, perch roach and rudd. Why not stay over? The traditional 17th Century farmhouse is full of character with beamed ceilings, fantastic log fires, and tastefully decorated bedrooms.

Wick and District Playgroup Play Leader, Mrs Chrystine Thomas 01656 890330 www.wickplaygroup.org.uk

Warren Mill Farm is open every day from 10.30am until dusk. Farm Park prices only £2 for adults and £1 for children. Fishery prices £5 for adults and £3 for juniors. All under 16’s to be accompanied by a responsible adult. There is also a snack bar for refreshments tea, coffee, rolls etc. Disabled access and toilets available.

Pendoylan, Cowbridge CF71 7UJ 01446 781274 www.warrenmillfarm.co.uk

VA L E

Calling all rural Vale event organisers... Join the new Rural Events Network for free and benefit from: ■ The FREE use of a stock of event

equipment for use in the Rural Vale ■ Your events being included for free

in the new Rural Events Listing ■ Up to date information and guidance

for event planning ■ Guest speakers

Funded by the Welsh Assembly Government, the network is administered by the Vale of Glamorgan Council and is open to anyone interested in the development and delivery of quality events in the rural Vale of Glamorgan.

For more information please call Sarah Jones 01446 704736 or email sejones@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk

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MUSIC Reviewed by Francis Brown of www.newsoundwales.com

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New Sound Wales aims to: ■ Keep you up to date with new bands and performers that are emerging from Wales and beyond. ■ Recommend new CD’s and music downloads. ■ Let you know which Welsh gigs are coming up in the months ahead.

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T H E B E AC H B OY S

DEFECTED IN THE HOUSE

Summer Love Songs

Ibiza (Eivissa) 09

Nothing encapsulates the sound of the summer more than the Beach Boys. This collection includes some of their biggest hits such as ‘God Only Knows’ & ‘Help Me Rhonda’ as well as some alternate mixes for all the army of Brian Wilson fanatics.

If your idea of a hot summer night is clubbing in Ibiza then this is the collection for you. Packed full of sophisticated house music from the likes of DJ Gregory & Armand Van Helden. Guaranteed to keep the L’America/ Hed Kandi crowd on their feet from dusk till dawn

If you like acoustic, folk and alternative music, www.newsoundwales.com is the place to bookmark and check on a regular basis. New Sound Wales are keen to hear what you think about music in Wales, what bands you’re listening to and who you would like to see playing in Wales. For more information contact Francis at www.newsoundwales.com Vale Life ‘we love music’ rating system ❦❦❦❦❦ Complete scorcher - factor 50 ❦❦❦❦ Sunny with clouds - factor 30 ❦❦❦ Some showers - factor 15 ❦❦ Overcast and grey - factor 5 ❦ Complete washout - factor 0

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JARVIS COCKER

LEONARD COHEN

Further Complications

Live in London

The high energy rock production on most of the tracks just doesn’t suit the songs or Jarvis’ voice. It is saved from being a complete turkey by a few tracks, such as the superb ‘I never said I was deep’ which is as good as the best of Pulp.

Last year he was the hottest ticket in town and this is one of those occasions when it is actually worth buying a live recording. Packed full of Cohen classics it captures the warmth of the reception he received, his genuine response to it and some immaculate musicianship.

DR ANDREW HIGNELL

JOHN BARNIE

The Australian Cricketers in Wales

Tales of the Shopocracy

Welsh and Australian cricket have come a long way since an Aborigine team first played at Swansea in 1868. Cardiff has become an official Ashes venue, and to mark this occasion, The Australian Cricketers in Wales looks back over each visit.

Tales of the Shopocracy is the memoir of one shopkeeping family, following the profound social changes of the post World War Two years. John Barnie looks back at his experience of this world.

PA U L M A N S H I P

M A L AC H Y D OY L E

Dear Mr Author 9-12 yrs

Swap 9-12 yrs

Meet Sam Willoughby. Out-distanced in the swimming pool and upstaged on the football field, he’s had a run of bad luck. Or so he thinks. But when a mysterious stranger claims to be ‘the author’ who is directing his life, it begins to sound more sinister.

Huw, from Wales, and Marcus, from Dublin meet whilst on holiday with their families in County Cork, Ireland. It turns out they’re identical to each other - ‘the perfect spit’ - even their mums can’t tell them apart! So they hatch a plan to do a swap. Only things start to go very wrong...

BOOKS Win all of the Gomer books reviewed here

Just answer the question and send your entry to Vale Life by September 7th 2009. Alternatively, email your entry to jennifer@valelife.co.uk

✃

Who is the author of Bats at Bay?

Answer

Name Address

Postcode Phone Email If you do not wish to receive details of products and services from Vale Life or other companies, please tick the box provided.

Last issue’s lucky winner M I S S H W YAT T Highlight Park, Barry

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HUW M

IRON & WINE

ISLAND RECORDS

Os Mewn Swn

Around the Well

Reggae Anthology

This is Huw M’s debut album and he looks set to be another Welsh artist to watch out for. The music is a mix of original melodies, folk songs flavoured with a dash of world music. A welcome addition to the growing number of Welsh artists worthy of wider recognition.

Value for money double CD of just some of the numerous ‘B’ sides, soundtrack contributions and EP’s that Sam Beam has put out under the moniker ‘Iron & Wine over the past 5 years. Stripped down lo-fi production, striking imagery and gorgeous melodies.

Ideal soundtrack for a hot sunny day chilling with friends in the garden. A fantastic 64 track, 3 CD collection at a very reasonable price charting the history of reggae and ska at Island Records since 1959. Classic hits sit nicely alongside less well known treasures.

❦❦❦❦❦ M A N I C S T R E E T P R E AC H E R S

❦❦❦ PA U L O N U T I N I

❦❦❦❦ S U P E R F U R RY A N I M A L S

Journal for Plague Lovers Sunny Side Up

Dark Days/Light Years

It took 14 years for the band to bring Richey Edwards’ last set of lyrics to life. Combining energy, passion, emotion and strong hooks they sound like a band re-born and re-energised. ‘Jackie Collins existential question time’ is up there with the best of their work.

Ninth studio album and they show no sign of compromise, self parody or running out of interesting ideas. Best track here is ‘The very best of Neil Diamond’ which deserves an award just for its title alone. A hit single provided Diamond’s record company don’t object.

Less commercial than his debut and he seems to be following his instinct rather than sales which is good to hear. Lead single ‘Candy’ is a classy pop and the album has a variety of influences from reggae to 60s soul which bodes well for his future output.

VALE LIFE SUMMER ISSUE 2009

P R O U D

T H E VA L E

A N G E L A G R AY

TIA JONES

The Welsh Cheese Book

On Open Ground

Celebrity chef Angela Gray has designed a selection of mouth-watering recipes to tickle the taste buds. From light, summery starters and hearty mains to indulgent desserts, this has something to tempt everyone.

Perfect summer reading! In the aftermath of WW2, Elin returns to a small seaside village in west Wales and marries Ianto, a local farmer. Soon Ianto’s violent temper rears its head, and Elin finds herself caught in the middle of a feud.

T O

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FREE

I N D E P E N D E N T

G L A M O R G A N ’S P R E M I E R L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

A TASTE OF SUMMER DELI DELIGHTS ACROSS THE VALE, WE VISIT PORTHCAWL, SUMMER STYLE, FABULOUS FOOD & OUR BEST COMPETITION EVER RESTAURANT REVIEWS, WHAT’S ON, BUSINESS, SHOPPING

THERE’S MORE ONLINE WWW . VALELIFE . CO . UK

PLUS A RT , B OOKS , S TYLE , HEALTH, HOMES AND MUCH MORE

BOOKS AND MUSIC

Become a reviewer for Vale Life magazine FRANCES THOMAS

SHEENA CROSSLEY

Megan the Detective 9-12 yrs

Bats at Bay 7-10 yrs

Megan has a talent for solving problems. Lucky too, for no sooner has she fixed one problem, another pops up before her! Megan treats us to a view of life from her perspective, even sharing her favourite recipes. But when her friend’s horse is stolen, she is suddenly confronted by a problem...

When a family of bats is forced to move from their tree, the search for a new home begins. They fly all around Cardiff visiting the famous sights in search of a place to all suit all their tastes... the Millennium Stadium, Bute Park, Cardiff Castle, Castell Coch and Cardiff Bay.

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Vale Life is expanding its website and would like to hear from readers who wish to contribute music and book reviews for inclusion on www.valelife.co.uk If you’re interested please telephone 0845 130 6452 or email jennifer@valelife.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

There’s a lot happening this season with a whole host of events across the Vale. For more info visit www.valelife.co.uk.

HAMPTONS OF PENARTH My CD collection is pretty eclectic; everything from Led Zeppelin to Lemar and Stereophonics to the Sugar Babes. So, being a selfconfessed fan of all genres of music, it didn’t take much encouragement by my friends to get me along for a themed night of Swing at Hamptons in Penarth. I spent the best part of last year trying to get hot tickets for these events, to no avail, due immediate sell-out success. So when given the opportunity, I jumped at the chance. It was a tough choice mind you, as I had decided to forgo Saturday night watching the John Barrowman show and, as my friends know, I am his biggest fan. Never mind, Sky+ duly set to record, I was hot to trot for a night of swing. Normally I grab a snack in the daytime at Hamptons, while secretly coveting their array of trinkets and soft furnishings, but this was a different experience. Weird some might say; café, music and wine in the middle of a furniture shop. But in true Andy and Peter style, this is no ordinary furniture shop and that’s what I love about it. It’s a lifestyle – an emporium. I love its quirkiness and the way they make the best use of space. Transformed to an art deco stage set, with the candles lit and a welcome greeting from our hosts, we were introduced to the cocktail menu. I went for the Dragonfly, a gin-based cocktail while my friends chose the vodka spiked Bay Breeze and the rum inspired Cuba Libra. Cocktails were accompanied by Italian antipasti of olives, breads, prosciutto and salami. I should mention here that each course is presented on large platters, emphasising the idea that food is for sharing with your nearest and dearest whether that be a couple or a group of friends.

By now, Penarth local Neil Lashley Craven had started to warm us up with his rendition of Sway. Neil is a young, talented and thoroughly affable guy who sings with a passion to please and brings into the mix his perfectly honed musical theatre style voice, which my friend and I spotted immediately. Certainly, I would advise that an empty stomach on arrival is a prerequisite as, after a brief interlude, we were presented with dips and crudités followed by the main event of spring chicken, seasonal salad and baby potatoes. What struck me was the lovely simplicity of the food, which is all too often lacking these days. As the chatter increased by a few decibels, Neil matched it in true Rat Pack style belting out some of the more upbeat favourites, while we anticipated the arrival of our chocolate affogato. By now I was fit to bursting but found room for the concluding home made mini desserts. Each mouthful was met with a satisfactory nod of the head and noises resembling ‘yummy’ and ‘wow’. As coffee and liqueurs were served, this afforded the opportunity for everyone of all ages to get up on their feet to swing and smooch to more Buble greats before the final curtain. Andy and Peter are the perfect hosts, who have created stylish themed evening events with that perfect combination of a live music performance, five-course dinner, convivial company and superb ambience. What I loved most was the opportunity to experience a night out akin to those in days gone by. It offered the right degree of ‘niceness’ in an otherwise mad world, where guests were able to shut out the worries of the day. All in all good clean fun sharing music, dance and food aplenty with an old fashioned community spirit. Reviewed by Suzanne Jaya Raghavan

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Dates for your diary FOUR TH OF JULY CELEBRATION Saturday 4th July Tickets £29 B A S T I L L E DAY L E Q U AT O R Z E J U I L L E T Tuesday 14th July Tickets £29 H A M P T O N S B I R T H DAY C E L E B R AT I O N 31st July and 1st August Tickets £29 SUMMERTIME SPECIAL Hamptons Birthday Event Friday 14th August Tickets £30 A N I G H T AT T H E O P E R A Hamptons Birthday Event 21st and 22 August Tickets £35 BLAME IT ON THE BOOGIE Hamptons Birthday Event Wednesday 26th August Tickets £29 T H E M AG I C O F M U S I C A L S Friday 11th September Tickets £30 SEPTEMBER SWING 25th and 26th September Tickets £30

Hamptons 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth CF64 1EA 029 2070 5391 www.hamptons-design.co.uk

ST DONATS ARTS CENTRE Visit one of Wales’ most beautiful arts venues located in the grounds of St Donats Castle on the spectacular Heritage Coast with stunning sea views. West End Drama Summer School

Mon 24 - Fri 28 August 10am - 4pm (performance 28 August) £75

Bored with summer holidays? Get yourself down to the arts centre for our fantastic West End singing and acting Summer School. Specially-created for 5 to 18 year olds, this week-long course will have you dancing, singing and enjoying all the classic musicals currently showing in the West End including High School Musical, Mamma Mia, We Will Rock You, The Sound of Music, Hairspray, The Lion King and Wicked. You’ll then be on stage in a performance for your family and friends.

Café Concert with Rory Russell

Tuesday 14 July 3pm £6, £5.50 includes tea and cake

The ethos is pure encouragement and fun. We offer an open access policy, so that means you and your friends will not be auditioned and you will not need any previous experience.

Sun 13 September 7pm (6pm reception) £25, £23.50 includes Pimms reception

Welcome back to these hugely popular matinee concerts - lovely afternoons spent with friends in the relaxed music café atmosphere of our beautiful Glassroom with, of course, free tea and cake and stunning coastal views! Rory wowed our matinee audiences when he first played for us last year. Now this leading young classical guitarist and chamber musician returns to play more beautiful music having graduated from the Royal Northern College of Music with a 1st in 2007 and winning numerous competitions. Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre presents

School’s Out Rocks with Major Music

Friday 17 July 7.30pm £5, £4

This fantastic organisation, based in Llantwit provides opportunities for young people to create music whilst improving self-esteem, confidence and skills. Hundreds of young musicians, singers and music technicians go through its doors each week and some have gone on to further education and training in the music professions. This performance showcases the talent of these young people and promises an evening of great music, singing and playing.

Acker Bilk and his Paramount Jazz Band

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Monday 31 August 6.30pm £16, £14.50

St Donats Arts Centre is thrilled to welcome back Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, with its unique style of openair performance to Wales. This year on the August Bank Holiday Monday, the company performs Shakespeare’s most popular romantic comedy following the adventures of four young Athenian lovers and a group of amateur actors and their interactions with the Duke and Duchess of Athens and the fairies who inhabit a moonlit forest. Don’t forget to bring your picnic along!

“Bold and clever” The Sunday Herald ❧ 13 ❧

Mr Acker Bilk – clarinettist, band leader, composer and worldwide icon for traditional jazz - is synonymous with his famous bowler hat and striped waistcoat. Along with his Paramount Jazz Men he is one of the most successful and best loved British jazz musicians of all time. Get your tickets early – they will be highly sought-after for as a special Pimms reception, the glorious setting of the Bradenstoke Hall and the cream of the UK’s current jazz talent (Enrico Tomasso on Trumpet, Ian Bateman on Trombone and John Day on Bass all combine to make this a very special concert for his final year on the road.

St Donats Arts Centre Box office 01446 799100 Minicom 01446 799102 enquiries@stdonats.com www.stdonats.com

Vale Life resident garden expert Bob Priddle on growing your own veg.

VALE GARDENS With the deepening of the credit crunch why not save some money and produce some great tasting vegetables and herbs. A shortage of space is no excuse as growing in containers is an easy way of growing crops in the garden.

Choosing your container Vegetables can be grown in a huge variety of containers. You can use pots, troughs or grow-bags. And they needn’t be new. You can recycle old plastic bins or containers by simply drilling some holes in the base to provide drainage. Even hanging baskets can be used to grow crops such as tomatoes. Varieties such as Balconi Yellow or Gartenpearle both do well in baskets. The size of your crop will depend on the size of container that you’re going to need. Crops such as potatoes will need bigger containers than salad crops such as lettuce and carrots. Smaller containers will also need watering and feeding more often. Compost Using good quality compost will help you to get the best results. There are soil-based compost such as John Innes No 3, multi purpose compost or even the newer peat-free varieties. Using the compost in growing-bags can also be good value and quality.

What sort of things can I grow? Crops that do well in containers... Beetroot: The young leaves can be used as ‘spinach’. Follow these with quick growing crops of late summer salads. Broad beans: Try dwarf varieties such as The Sutton. As well as the delicious beans, the tops can also be pinched out to reduce blackfly attacks and be used as ‘greens’ or in a stir fry. Carrots: These do really well in containers. Select short or stump rooted varieties if you can’t get a bigger container. French beans: Another subject that does well in pots and they do not require supports in the same way that taller runner beans do. Lettuces: Mini lettuces such as ‘Little Gem’ and ‘Tom Thumb’ can be sown from March onwards for crops. Peas: They will need a largish container and may need a bit of staking but nothing beats the great taste of fresh peas. Potatoes: You’ll need a big container, old plastic rubbish bins with holes drilled in them work well. Strong empty compost bags turned inside out so the black side attracts the warmth also work well. Salad leaves: Rocket, lettuce, chicory and spinach are tasty choices. Pick by pinching off the top few leaves leaving a stump to re-sprout for follow-on.

“Keep your crops well watered but avoid prolonged water logging. A feed of general-purpose liquid fertiliser can be applied every few weeks and will pay dividends.”

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Spring onions: Pull when they get big enough. By late July, you should be able to re-sow with finger carrots for bunches of baby carrots in October. Garlic also does well grown in pots. Spinach: Spinach quickly runs to seed, so sow courgettes in June for late summer fruits. Herbs: Go on and spice your cooking because nothing beats the great taste of fresh herbs.

Taking care of your crops Keep your crops well watered but avoid prolonged water logging. A feed of general-purpose liquid fertiliser can be applied every few weeks and will pay dividends. In the unlikely event that we gat a late frost, cover the plants with horticultural fleece or move pots to a warmer, sheltered spot. Keep picking or harvesting your crops as plants left to run to seed sap the energy from plants and they also don’t taste so good. The National Gardens Scheme The National Gardens Scheme has for many years allowed people to visit gardens and at the same time raise money for charities. You may have seen their famous yellow signs advertising a garden that is open. These will not, in most cases, be huge stately homes but even so, will give you some real tips and insights in to what can be achieved in smaller gardens. I’ve often said that I learn more from these gardens than from visiting shows like Chelsea. On the subject of visiting gardens, I’d like to extend my thanks to everyone at the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Centre in Austin, Texas for making me feel so welcome. If you’re visiting Texas put it on your list of places to visit - you won’t be disappointed.

RE GI STER FREE TODAY Y! The new Vale Rural Events Networ k is administered by The Vale a of Glamorgan Council and is open to

&OR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER PLEASE CONTACT 3ARAH *ONES ON OR

WWW VALEOFGLAMORGAN GOV UK

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RESTAURANT REVIEWS Each issue we review a selection of Vale restaurants.

SOUTHERNDOWN

La Plie - a star in the making For those of you who haven’t yet visited La Plie in Southerndown, you rally must go! I’ve eaten there on a few occasions now, both with my husband, in a family group and with a number of friends and colleagues. In my humble opinion, owner and Chef Matt Powell is a star (Michelin) in the making. Our latest visit was for a family Sunday lunch. We’d not eaten at La Plie with our son before so I was interested to see what a ten year old thought of fine dining. It was a very hot day but we were as cool as cucumbers as the main door was left open to let in a cooling breeze and the fans were on. We were lucky enough to be seated by the window which gave us a fantastic view of the surrounding fields.

Head waiter, Alex, gave us our menus and, over a glass of surprisingly good house white, we discussed our choices. As we did so, the waitress arrived with canapés of carpaccio of venison, red cabbage jelly, black lava salt and sage flower which we enjoyed immensely. Our son abstained and concentrated on his freshly baked bread roll instead. An amuse bouche celeriac soup followed which was delicious and full of flavour. We had decided on our starters and sat back waiting for their arrival. Fresh water crayfish pan fried in beurre noisette, locally picked sea beet, crayfish gellée and crayfish bisque sauce for hubby, my new season British asparagus, truffle poached free range duck egg, wood sorrel, morels and morel crème. Our son had chosen pork belly, sharp apple pannacotta, roasted apple purée and pork juice reduction. All three starters were masterpieces on a plate. The flavours all worked well together magnificently.

We were enjoying our food so much that we hadn’t noticed the restaurant filling up with diners and I even spotted a few familiar faces. Our main course then arrived. Our son had chosen Welsh saltmarsh rack of lamb, braised haricot blanc, wild cabbage, baby turnips, baby fennel and lamb jus. I opted for the roasted monkfish tail, petit artichoke barigoule, lobster tortellini and lobster sauce whilst my hubby chose the pan fried turbot, steamed mussels, palourde clam, half scallop, pommes purée, with samphire and saffron sauce. An order of spring greens of new season British asparagus, buttered hispi cabbage and fresh peas made the ideal accompaniment to our meals. After our superb main courses, we were all quite full but still had the desire to order the white and 70% Guanaja chocolate mousse, elderflower, poached cherries and cherry sorbet for my husband and raspberry soufflé, fresh raspberries, iced raspberry mousse and raspberry reduction for myself and a choice of two of each Welsh and French artisan cheeses, homemade chutney and crackers for our son. I can’t really put into words how beautifully these dishes were presented and also how gorgeous they tasted.

“Check your diary and book a table today!” ❧ 16 ❧

Over coffee and chocolates, Matt popped over to chat with us for a while, stopping at each table to check all was well and that his customers were happy. I saw only happiness. If you do one thing today, check your diary and book a table! Word is getting around about this talented young man. A star is born. You heard it here first!

La Plie Restaurant 52 Beach Road, Southerndown Bridgend CF32 0RP 01656 880127 www.laplierestaurant.co.uk

COWBRIDGE

Gastronomic delights at The Market Place If you’ve not been to the Market Place for a while then you will be amazed at the transformation. The Brasserie style has gone and in its place is a fabulous restaurant thanks to the new owners and head Chef Tim Marriott, a local chap but trained in some of the hottest kitchens in London. And you can tell - the quality shines through. We’ve been regulars since January and found the food so amazing that I’ve been raving about it ever since. So when I was asked to write a review I couldn’t wait to put pen to paper. As soon as you walk in to The Market Place you immediately get the buzz of a full restaurant, loads of atmosphere and the open kitchen in the heart of it all, is electrifying. You get the feeling that this is, ‘the place to be’.

Our starters arrive and my salad is perfection on a plate. Three succulent king prawns on a bed of noodles garnished with a pretty and delicious salad, all drizzled with a light chilli dressing. Wow! Really, really good. Russ’s soup was a lovely and creamy, well balanced flavours and crunchy croutons on top, yum.

Friendly attentive staff show us to our table and we are presented with both the al a carte menu and the wine list. That’s when you notice the huge change from before - the menu. With a choice of six starters and nine mains, I had trouble choosing, it all sounded so good. It’s at times like this you wish you had invited the in laws so you could try a little bit from everyone!

We had some time before our main course, so Stefano pops over to ask us if we wanted to have a look at the garden terrace, as it was such a lovely evening and they were having some work done. Work done, understatement of the year! It’s like the RHS Chelsea has come to Cowbridge. Beautiful trees were still being planted, but you can see the potential. I love eating outside in the summer, so I can’t wait for it to be finished.

I choose the warm sautéed prawn and crayfish tail salad with a sweet chilli dressing to start and Russ, the soup of the day, which was white onion and celery. The head waiter, Stephano knows we like a drop or two of red wine and recommends the South African pinotage. Heaven! It was like alcoholic Ribena- rich, fruity and clean. Far too easy to drink but absolutely delish. With glass in hand, I cast my eye around the restaurant to see a great mix of people. From trendy couples in their designer jeans to more sophicated parties in the silks and linens, all having a wonderful time.

Starters were a tough act to follow, but Tim didn’t fail to deliver with the main course. I had the roast monkfish wrapped in bacon with a saffron risotto cake, braised fennel with chorizo, peppers and a saffron vinaigrette. Summer on a plate, with flavours to send you into raptures. Perfection, once again. Russ chose the char-grilled lamb with spring greens, cannelloni beans and a white bean salsa. Ordered pink. Cooked perfectly. It was so tender, it melted in your mouth. Together with the greens, bean salsa and the mint and red wine jus, it was so good you wanted to lick the plate.

“Would we like a dessert?” we were asked. I’m not a pudding girl, but here I always leave a little bit of room for dessert and I have never been disappointed. I plumped for the poached pear mille feuille with Chantilly cream and hazelnut ice cream. Russ chose the feuillentine of Baileys parfait with almond tuille and summer berries. Again, both desserts were beautiful presented. My pear was wonderful, and when put with the light pastry, hazelnut ice cream, and a toffee sauce it was a truly lovely dessert. Russ’s was absolutely amazing; I don’t know where to start as it was so good. ❧ 17 ❧

Pure heaven! The Sous Chef’s masterpieces are one of the highlights of The Marketplace. We shared a wonderful selection of four Welsh cheeses served with a grape and celery chutney and water biscuits. Our Artisan cheese makers can hold their heads high amongst the best in Europe. Really good. Coffee served with truffles was an excellent finale to a very fine meal. Tim is a chef who takes pride in his work, he deserves nothing but success. His reputation is spreading and, once you’ve been to The Market Place, you’ll know why. The Market Place doesn’t disappoint. A 3 course meal for 2 with wine is about £65. Also on offer is a fixed price 2 course lunch and dinner menu, Tuesdays to Fridays and Saturday lunch at £10.95 and £12.95. Kindly reviewed by Melanie James, owner of The Linen Cupboard, Cowbridge. If you’ve been to The Linen Cupboard, you’ll know that Melanie knows quality when she sees it. The Linen Cupboard, 2 Penny Lane, Cowbridge CF71 7EG 01446 771150

The Market Place 66 The High Street Cowbridge CF71 7AH 01446 774 800 enq@the-marketplace.co.uk www.the-marketplace.co.uk

PRIDE OF

Kami Soroush has been a chef for over 25 years and his previous restaurant was the highest ranked Michelin Guide entry in Wales. Kami and his wife Azi have recently refurbished the New Red Lion, Pendoylan, creating a delightful setting to match the excellent cuisine. What can people expect from The New Red Lion restaurant? We have tried to create the sort of place I would love to visit when my wife, Azi and I go out. Somewhere beautiful in the countryside, away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city with no parking problem but with good surroundings, ambience and friendly staff who provide relaxed but efficient service. Most importantly, on offer is an excellent choice of menu and a wonderful wine list. What dishes are most popular? You see a lot of restaurants these days using too many flavours (more than four can be confusing to the palate) and a lot of fancy names in their menus. This can end up being too complicated and some customers may feel uncomfortable ordering or might feel the need to ask someone to explain it to them which can be embarrassing. Because of this all of the dishes that we create are kept simple but with a little twist which are presented beautifully with emphasis on freshness. One of the most popular dishes we find, for example, is the Red Snapper with fresh Pomegranate, Saffron, Walnuts and Tarragon.

Where else have you worked and how has it influenced you? I am a self taught chef and have always worked for myself having owned my own restaurants, but of course I was not a chef to begin with. At my last restaurant, Trillium, I had a good team in my kitchen but the problem was my chefs knew more than me so I felt that I had to learn fast. I soon started to work in the kitchen as a Sous Chef and within six months I took over the role as Head Chef where, not long after, I was presented with the award for the highest recommended restaurant of the year in Wales. I received this award for four years running and was included in seven different good food guides including The Michelin. I also had the pleasure of training the winner of the Wales Future Cook of the Year who became one of the top five in Britain. I was also runner-up in the awards for Welsh Lamb Dish of the Year. What has been your proudest career moment to date? Without doubt it was when Azi and I were introduced to Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall when they stopped at the New Red Lion Gastro Pub in 2005.

Where do you think your talent for cooking comes from? My mum had a lot of influence on my love for cooking. I think to be a good chef, as I say in my cookery courses, you need to have a lot of patience, never cut corners whilst cooking and always imagine the food you are about to cook by smelling and tasting it in your mind so you have an idea of how you intend the dish to look and taste. Has anyone inspired you? My philosophy is ‘simple but nice’ and it comes from one of the greatest chefs, Anton Mosimann. I remember when I was cooking on the TV show Get Going in 1993 I was often asked why I never wore a chef jacket but instead I would wear a shirt, bow tie and apron and the answer was always the same... “It’s a tribute to Mr Mosimann,” as he always wore a bow tie on his programmes.

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PENDOYLAN

What has been your most memorable meal to date? Definitely the Welsh Lamb Casserole with Sun Dried Limes, Saffron and Lentils which Azi cooked - ‘majical’.

Where would you most like to eat in the world? Hmm, that’s a difficult one. If I could go back in time then it would definitely be one more meal in my mum’s kitchen. The restaurant I would really love to visit but haven’t had the chance to yet is El Bouli which is in Madrid, in Spain. What would be your last supper? A glass or two of champagne!

“My philosophy is ‘simple but nice’ and it comes from one of the greatest chefs, Anton Mosimann. ❧ 19 ❧

The New Red Lion Gastro Pub Pendoylan Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7UJ 01446 760332 www.newredlion.com

Whether you prefer the thrills of the funfair, a quiet walk along the promenade or a lazy day sunning yourself on one of its fine beaches, Porthcawl has it all. You’ll be able to enjoy good food and hospitality at the many inns, restaurants or hotels in the town centre, and in the nearby picturesque villages of Newton and Nottage. Shoppers will be in their element either in the High Street or in popular New Road (or Station Hill as it’s known locally). Situated between Cardiff and Swansea, and just a few miles from the M4 motorway, Porthcawl is ideally located to gain easy access to all main towns, cities and coastal areas of South Wales. So what does Porthcawl have to offer? Most day visitors come to Porthcawl for its fairground, perhaps the last of its type in Wales. But the enormous caravan park at Trecco attracts people throughout the year, offering long-and short-term rents. With the credit crunch, caravan holidays are experiencing an upturn, offering at Porthcawl fantastic sea views and easy beach access. Porthcawl itself is not historic in the way of Cowbridge or Llantwit. But its associated villages of Nottage and Newton have profound histories. Newton's pubs are some of the oldest in the area, and the church of St John the Baptist boasts an extraordinary medieval pulpit, the carved figures so real they might have been based on locals. Founded in the twelfth century, its fortress-like design speaks of a time of upheaval and conflict.

Both Newton and Nottage have superb village greens, popular with locals who take their drinks there on summer evenings. As to the sea itself, this year Rest Bay and Trecco Bay have maintained Blue Flag status. The former offers some of the best surfing in south Wales, plus exhilarating walks to Sker and into Kenfig National Nature Reserve. Newton was the first harbour in the area, and from the slipway there are walks east along Traeth yr Afon to the Ogwr rivermouth. Turn inland and there are tracks across the unique duneland to Merthyr Mawr. Culturally, Porthcawl is at last showing signs of health. Writer Tom Anderson celebrates surf and much more in his latest volume, Chasing Dean (Summersdale), whilst musicians Richard Thomas and Peter Morgan offer exciting performances. The resort is strongly associated with television celebrities such as Ruth Jones, Rob Brydon and Jan Anderson. The man who encouraged their talent Roger Burnell - continues to develop the theatre and television work of Porthcawl actors. And of course, in the Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl boasts one of the most successful (and attractive) theatres in south Wales, in a wonderful seafront location. You’ll never have to go far for a drink or somewhere to eat. Thirsty? You could try The Lorelei, 38, Esplanade Avenue, with its wonderful selection of real ales, some from Vale breweries, and home-cooked food. And to satiate that hunger, you could try Y Deri Cymreig in John Street, La Rochelle in Well Street and Salthouse on The Square. Who can resist fish and chips and a walk along the front. Those urges can be satiated by Beale’s Fish and Chip Shop on the Eastern Promenade or Finnegan’s Fish & Chips, Station Hill and The Station Hill Fish Bar on, you guessed it, Station Hill!

Looking for presents? Then there's Vida, the lifestyle boutique on Station Hill, Serenity based below the funky new apartments overlooking the sea, Shoe22 and Holkat children’s boutique on New Road and SUSSED, the ethical and green shop at 92, John Street. If you’re a surfing dude, then Porthcawl is one of the top locations in Wales for surfing and competitions are regularly held at Rest Bay. There are three golf courses to the north of the town. Porthcawl is also home to rugby union team Porthcawl RFC and rugby league side Bridgend Blue Bulls. There are many watersports and outdoor activities on offer from abseiling to scuba diving. Porthcawl has many events held throughout the year, namely The Porthcawl Jazz Festival held annually in April, the Town Carnival which takes place annually in July, Surf Cult runs for a week in September and the now infamous Elvis Festival runs every September, attracting Elvis tribute artists and devotees from across the World. Other festivals include the Nottage Beer Festival and the Porthcawl Sea Festival. As you can see, there’s more to see and do at Porthcawl than you think! Robert Minhinnick Robert is an advisor to the lifestyle and environmental charity, Sustainable Wales, which is always looking for good volunteers. For unique work experience, telephone 01656 783405. Robert’s novel, ‘Sea Holly’ (Seren Books) which was shortlisted for the Royal Society of Literature's Ondaatje Prize in 2008, is based firmly in Porthcawl. It can be purchased from all good bookshops, including SUSSED in Porthcawl. SUSSED is a unique co-operative venture, maintained by the charity, ‘Sustainable Wales’. Photographs courtesy of Martin Phillips www.martinphillipsphotography.com

“Just a few miles from the M4 motorway, Porthcawl is ideally located to gain easy access to all main towns, cities and coastal areas of South Wales.” ❧ 20 ❧

P O R T H C AW L

Holkat childrenswear boutique On the popular New Road is Holkat, a gorgeous childrenswear boutique for newborns and children up to eight years old. We caught up with Owner Sharan Sinclair to find out why the boutique is so popular. Sharan, what does Holkat sell? HolKat is a childrenswear boutique selling girls and boys clothing and accessories for newborns up to 8 year olds. We stock Emile et Rose, Coco Collection, Elle, Timberland, Chipie, Legowear, Berlingot, Little Joules, Little Darlings, Abella, Catamini, Pampolina and many more. When did you buy the business? The shop has been selling childrenswear for over 20 years under its original name MiniMinor. The previous owner retired in 2008 and I decided to buy it because it was so well established with customers coming from miles around.

Why Porthcawl? I was brought up in Porthcawl and my parents still live in Nottage. Although I now live in Margam with my husband Jonathan and our daughters Holly and Katie, I still think of Porthcawl as my home. It’s a thriving town and I particularly liked the bustling area known locally as Station Hill. New Road has a fantastic range of quality shops and we’re all very neighbourly, which is great. My husband is also a local businessman, whose family owns car dealerships the length and breadth of South Wales. We both love the area. Why Holkat? The name comes from my daughters Holly & Katie. Who shops here? Obviously locals, but we’re seeing more and more new faces. We get most of our business from word-of-mouth which is the best way, I think, as it means we’re giving the customer what they want and they’re happy to recommend us.

“We get most of our business from word-of-mouth which is the best way, I think, as it means we’re giving the customer what they want.” P O R T H C AW L

These boots are made for walking! Liz Fry, owner of SHOE22, knows a thing or two about footwear. Whether it’s back to school shoes for the kids, or the right name brands for kids and mums alike, SHOE22 is where it’s at. With a loyal customer base, and new ones visiting daily, it would be difficult to keep this shoe emporium a secret for long. We caught up with Liz to find out more. Liz, tell us more about SHOE22. We offer a wide range of designer, continental and classic shoes for children from birth up to the teenagers ib a size 8 (eu41). We even have a small range for mums too. Most of all, we pride ourselves on our expert fitting service, accommodating the client’s individual needs, as our customer service and knowledge is second to none. From your first pair of shoes – from crawling to walking tall, SHOE22 will be with you every step of the way. How long has SHOE22 been in business? SHOE22 was launched in march 2007 so we’ve just entered our third year.

Any plans for the future? Yes, I’d like to get the website ww.holkat.co.uk fully operational and keep my existing customers happy and, hopfefully, gain a few more along the way.

What brands do you stock? We have a treasure trove of kids’ shoes from the great British classic ‘Startrite’, to Lelli Kelly, Geox, Sketchers, Miss Sixty, Pom D’api, Agatha Ruiz De la Prada, Naturino, Primigi, Moschino and Birkenstock, plus a host of pretty and perky European brands. Who are your customers – age ranges? We have a wide range of customers starting from birth to teens. We even sell to mums!

HolKat 31 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DL 01656 771559 info@holkat.co.uk Open 10am - 5pm Monday to Saturday

What are your future plans? We are always looking for ‘the new up and coming’ ‘must haves’ and will continue to do so. We train our staff continuously to maintain our high standard of shoe fitting, and of course to keep the shop friendly and welcoming, ensuring our customers leave happy and satisfied with the service. SHOE22 has been very successful in Porthcawl and we’d very much like to expand in other areas. We are definitely looking for bigger premises in Porthcawl, too!

What are your biggest sellers? Undoubtedly it would have to be our range of ‘back to school’ shoes. We have a massive selection and make sure that we keep the selection fully stocked so as not to disappoint. You’d be surprised, but children, not surprisingly more so girls than boys, have their own ideas on what they like. We respect their ideas and work with both mum and child to find the perfect shoe. Are your customers local? We have great local support from our neighboring towns and the valleys. Customers also travel as far afield as Carmarthenshire and England. We even regularly send parcels to a family in America! ❧ 21 ❧

SHOE22 22B New Road Porthcawl CF36 5DN 01656 788628 liz@shoe22.co.uk

“The white Dior saddle bag I purchased is absolutely stunning, exactly as described, if not better. Its arrival was a real experience, fabulous packaging! This is my first purchase and it was a simply perfect experience. Many thanks for the excellent service, I’ll be back soon.” Vanessa Westlake

“Thank you so much Designer Desires! Great site, easy navigation and what a brilliant service.” Cheryl Hakeney

DESIGNER

What fashonable woman doesn’t like her designer brands? Armani, Gucci, Dior, Escada and Prada – you name them, we’ve all got our eye on them. But, these days, who of us can really afford designer prices in the current economic climate? Designerdesires.com offers a full range of new and nearly new clothing and accessories at discounted prices. Whether you’re looking to buy a designer item or sell your unwanted items, Designerdesires.com may be the answer. We met with founder, Jane Egan to find out more. Jane, tell us about Designer Desires Designer Desires was set up so that everyone who loves fashion can afford a piece of luxury. The credit crunch means that everyone is looking to reduce their spending and this is the ideal way to own the very best designer fashions without breaking the bank. Items for sale are checked to ensure the highest quality and enable shoppers to purchase with confidence. Everyone has items in their wardrobes which were purchased for a special event and have perhaps been worn only once or twice. The site offers the ability to turn these unwanted items into cash by finding a new, appreciative owner. Has fashion always been a passion? I was brought up with fashion in my blood! My grandfather had a high end ladies outfitters and my mother had her own designer dress agency which she established in the mid 70s, Caryl’s Dress Agency, one of the first established in Wales. My mother retired some years back and since then we have often talked about opening another dress agency. One evening we were again having the same conversation and I suggested that maybe an online dress agency would be the answer, and so Designer Desires was conceived. I bet you’re partial to designer clothes yourself? Yes, classic Chanel and Dior of course! Roberto Verino of Spain is one of my favourites at the moment. I tend to hold on to classic pieces and team them up with current lines to add an edge to my outfit. Above all, my greatest weakness is shoes!

Who are your customers? It varies from the person who wants to make space in their wardrobes by getting rid of items they’ve had for a year or more (we don’t take any items more than 3 years old), that they’re tired of, or that don’t fit. Or it might be just keeping on top of things and selling on their ‘special occasion’ wear – a beautiful evening dress or a worn once wedding or racing outfit. Jewellery, shoes, bags, hats, scarves, gloves and clothes all fit into this category.

I suppose online means that you’re open all of the time? We’re open twenty four hours a day, 365 days a year to anyone in the world, which is great as seasons don’t matter for stock. I remember, as a child, my mum having to turn down items because customers brought clothes in at the wrong time of year.

How does it work? If you buy from Designer Desires you will receive your purchase beautifully packaged within three days for you to try on in the comfort of your own home. If you sell through us, we offer a discreet, reliable, commission based service. All you have to do is decide to sell and we do the rest, it couldn’t be easier. Designer Desires charge 40% commission on the sale price which is set in advance of the item being ‘live’ on the site, in agreement with the vendor. This commission rate is lower than on the high street.

With Christmas on the horizon, how can Designer Desires help Vale Life readers? The website provides a great way for sellers to make some extra cash and for buyers it is an opportunity to purchase a gift for a loved one or alternatively, you may want to treat yourself and get your hands on a fantastic designer number, ready for the festive period.

Who’s style do you admire most? Audrey Hepburn, timeless classic and right now Carla Bruni-Sarkozy.

“We’re open twenty four hours a day, 365 days a year to anyone in the world.”

DESIRES ❧ 23 ❧

Designer Desires 07917 691576 or 01656 773323 jane@designerdesires.com www.designerdesires.com

On Porthcawl’s High Street you’ll find contemporary jewellers RMA Williams Jewellers. Vale Life chatted with owners, Mellissa and Marcus, about their passion for jewellery and why Porthcawl is the...

JID Diamond ring £925

PERFECT SETTING When did your business open? Marcus and I opened the shop in July last year. Our shop sells jewellery from £5 to £5,000 plus. It’s been an exciting time for us and we’re pleased with how it’s going, considering we opened just before the credit crunch. Who are your customers? Our main customers are ladies buying jewellery for themselves or for gifts for loved ones. We also find men feel very comfortable buying from our store and appreciate we offer free gift wrapping and delivery. We have many repeat customers, so we must be doing something right! We also have a successful online store which has been trading for three years, and we are pleased to say that we have customers from all over the UK. What do you specialise in? Our aim is to stock jewellery that’s a bit different and we have a mix of wellknown brands as well as independent British designers. By being different, I think we stand out from the crowd.

Hot Diamonds Drifwood ring £95

A British designer whose work has been selling well is Sheila Fleet (Orkney Designer Jewellery). Her jewellery is handmade and hand enamelled and her jewellery designs are influenced by nature. It’s beautiful and unique and we are the only stockist in the area. Also selling well are a range of wedding rings which are a bit different, set with diamonds or shaped to compliment an engagement ring by Stephen Tyler, Bands of Desire and M and M Jewellery.

What are your best sellers? Our best sellers are Lovelinks charm beads, Clogau Welsh Gold and Hot Diamonds. We also sell Fiorelli Italian Jewellery, men’s jewellery by Fred Bennett and D for Diamond children’s jewellery, amongst others. Lovelinks are flying off the shelves at the moment and with the different beads, people feel they can create a story that’s individual to them.We also sell the Name links, so any message such as ‘I Love You’ or any name can be printed on a link. Lovelinks beads also fit on other style charm bead bracelets too. Clogau Welsh Gold has links to royalty and the rareness of Welsh gold makes it popular to collect. They make lots of modern designs in silver and rose gold too, such as the new Cariad Club rings and the Capstone ‘sweetie’ bracelet. Hot Diamonds continues to sell well, in particular, charm bracelets which are a gorgeous gift for an 18th or 21st. The driftwood ring has also been selling well, as has the driftwood cuff. Do you accept commissions? We work with a number of designers and companies that can re-model jewellery. We have just set two lovely diamonds taken from a ring into a pair of diamond earrings for a customer. We can also source diamonds in a particular cut or clarity, including Canadian Diamonds. What other services do you offer? We are members of the National Association of Goldsmiths and we offer valuations, repairs, pearl re-stringing and the usual jewellery services. We also buy second hand jewellery and sovereigns as well as scrap gold. Customers are frequently surprised by how much they can get for a pile of broken chains and earrings.

“By being different, I think we stand out from the crowd.” ❧ 24 ❧

Any new brands on the horizon? We have just taken on the Thomas Sabo Charm collection which should be instore in July, and we are looking to stock the rest of their jewellery by the Autumn so watch this space! Why do you think you have such a loyal following ? I think our customers come to us because we sell a mix of names they know and trust as well as jewellery they won’t see elsewhere. People like to have an enjoyable shopping experience when they buy jewellery and I think we provide that by offering excellent customer service in a glamorous environment, where they can sit on a comfortable sofa and browse jewellery at their leisure. Any plans for the future? We are looking to take on some other brands before Christmas and in the future we would love to open another shop. I am also studying for a Jeweller’s Diploma so we have lots to do in the next few hectic months! Turn to page 43 for a chance to win a gorgeous Lovelinks bracelet and for details of a very special discount for Vale Life readers!

RMA Williams Jewellers 35 John Street, Porthcawl CF36 3AP 01656 786007 sales@rmawilliams.com www.rmawilliams.com

“People like to have an enjoyable shopping experience when they buy jewellery and I think we provide that.”

Clogau Gold Cariad Rings from £99

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VIDA

Enjoy balmy al fresco evenings this Summer with a range of garden furniture and accessories from the gorgeous Vida lifestyle boutique, Porthcawl. We met co-owner Jessica Phillips to find out more. Jessica, can you tell us what are the hot sellers for Summer at Vida? Our exclusive range of Jonart garden furniture has been a huge success and goes beautifully with our fantastic selection of garden lanterns and candles. Why not fill up your garden with premium quality plants from our shop and pick up a wine spike for those essential lazy summer evenings? If you need flowers for a gift or special occasion, call in or phone us for a chat about what's in season and we can advise you on something that's perfect for your needs. From simple hand tied bouquets to tropical arrangements or porcelain pitchers full of garden flowers, we will create an arrangement to suit any style and budget. We offer delivery within the Porthcawl area and have free parking right outside and a convenient pick up point at the rear of the shop.

Do you do weddings too? We certainly do - and we get as excited about them as you do! We spend a lot of time with our clients working together to create the type of flowers that will make their hearts sing and their guests swoon. From contemporary arrangements to informal cottage garden flowers, we always do it Vida-stye, which means a bespoke service every time, without blowing your budget. Importantly, our policy of never servicing more than one wedding on a given day also ensures we can be totally dedicated to our brides and grooms on their special day.

“We spend a lot of time with our clients working together to create the type of flowers that will make their hearts sing.” ❧ 26 ❧

Vida Lifestyle Boutique 32 New Road, Station Hill Porthcawl CF36 5DN 01656 786735 Monday to Saturday 10am to 5.30pm www.vida-online.com www.vidaflora.com Please bear with us while we finish perfecting our website

FLORA

Alison Bowen is the owner of the well established interior design company called A & C Interiors on New Road, Porthcawl. Alison’s flair for colour and style is well known in Porthcawl and here she talks to Vale Life about her...

CREATIVE INSPIRATION Tell us about A & C Interiors? We design, make and fit all types of window treatments and soft furnishings. We have hundreds of lovely fabrics and wall covering books in the shop for our clients to choose from.

Why did you choose Porthcawl? I am Porthcawl born and bred. I love to be able to work and live by the sea. I have to drive past the sea every day on my way to work. It’s a lovely way to start the day.

How long has A & C been going? The studio shop has been running for ten years and prior to that I worked from home for ten years working for private customers and sub-contracting to shops.

Who are your customers? All age groups - people who love quality fabrics and wall coverings, workmanship and service. The majority of customers, regulars and new business comes through word of mouth.

What’s your background? I have a degree in mathematics and astrophysics but I’ve always had a passion for sewing and fabric – so much so, that sometimes when I see a new exciting fabric or design it gives me goosebumps! I always made my own soft furnishings and clothes for my daughter when she was small, then friends used to ask me to make things for their homes and children. As they grew older the time was right to open a shop which I absolutely adore. I’m very lucky to be able to make a career out of my hobby.

What services do you offer? We offer handmade beautiful curtains, pelmets, valances, tie backs and cushions. We also offer all types of blinds including Roman, vertical, sheerlite (vertical with voiles) roller, venetian, panel, pleated, sell poles and tracks plus bay window poles. Which is your most popular brand? Harlequin. We stock every fabric and wall covering book being a premier retailer for them. A section of the shop is dedicated to Harlequin with many displays of their fabrics and papers. ❧ 28 ❧

Our other main brands are Romo, Villa Nova, Blendworth, Sanderson, Zoffany, Today Interiors, James Brindley, Kandola, Kai, Wind, Design Forum, RolLite Blinds, Faber, Luxaflex, Wemyss Houles, Handsome Trimmings, Walcot. All of these brands have lovely quality fabrics, wall coverings, blinds, trimmings and poles. Why do you think customers choose to shop at A & C? We are happy to look at all types of work. We specialise in beautiful poles, including angled and curved bay window poles. We offer free measure, design and quote. Customers may take books home to view at their leisure. Also, we offer a complete home service for people who are unable to leave their homes. Customers come to us because they can relax knowing that they will have a beautiful product that will give them a lot of pleasure and that the service will be second to none.

“We are happy to look at all types of work.”

“At A & C Interiors projects both large and small are treated with the same integrity and dedication leading to high quality results.”

What are your plans for the future? We are always on the look out for new brands. One to watch is Design Forum for fabric. Another is Facette Shades which are soft fabric blinds used for subtle light control. We have samples of both in the shop. We will continue to offer a lovely range of products to the people of south Wales. My husband and I fit and hang all the window treatments and there is nothing more satisfying then seeing the pleasure on our customers’ faces when the job is completed, having achieved what they wanted and more. Fab!

A & C Interiors 30 New Road Porthcawl CF36 5DN 01656 772353

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The Gavin Alexander Salon in Porthcawl has built a reputation for excellence. Vale Life talked with Sandra Alexander about the family business, how it has grown and what makes the Gavin Alexander ethos so special.

Sandra, the family already had a thriving, successful business in Cardiff Bay, why did you choose Porthcawl as part of the expansion? We have always loved this area, which is why we retired from our Hereford city salons to move back to Wales. My parents and grandparents lived here, so it holds fond memories for me of my childhood. We also felt that the local clientele would love our unique salon environment and appreciate our attentive team of stylists. The salon also has lovely views overlooking Griffin Park. Who could ask for more? The name Gavin Alexander is synonymous with quality hairdressing. Why do you think that is so? We have run successful salons over the past 44 years in Abergavenny and Crickhowell then Hereford for 23 years and at Queen’s Arcade, Cardiff and finally our unique salon location in Cardiff Bay. Our son Gavin now heads up the Cardiff Bay salon while Colin and I are based at Porthcawl.

“We offer real value for money to our clients.”

SALON

What makes a good hairdresser? A ‘good cut’ created specifically for each client’s hair type is the basis of all successful hairdressing services in our salons today. It is pointless creating a style that cannot be managed at home by the client between visits to the salon, hence we believe in training all of our staff to recommend a home care range from our L’Oréal Professional products to help them maintain the look themselves. Our mission statement is ‘Our stylists create styles to suit, you, your personality and lifestyle’. To quote Colin, “I think we all forget that our hair is the hat you cannot take off!”

So the focus is definitely on training and customer care? Absolutely, our team reflect our brand and we ensure that they get support and training in all aspects of customer care as well as the latest hair styling techniques. From first greeting the client, offering them refreshments, how they interact when shampooing, cutting and styling the hair, to when they walk out of the door, these values are vitally important to us. First and foremost, we want our clients to enjoy the experience of visiting a Gavin Alexander salon and look forward, with confidence, to their next appointment. ❧ 30 ❧

Colin will be working in the Porthcawl salon on Thursdays and Fridays. Why is this? By request! As he has been in the business a long time, clients tend to follow him around, as they do with Gavin. Colin has a wealth of experience in all aspects of hairdressing. He is particularly well known for having the ability to create that extra movement in the hair with the introduction of a ‘soft body wave’, which not many hairdressers can achieve these days.

He has worked with many of the top hairdressing manufacturers in the country and has assisted with photoshoots and training seminars in London. During these years he has worked with many celebrity clients, the most quirky of these probably being an ex lady prime minister! He prefers to leave the colouring to the colour artists in his team who work with him. The salon has a great reputation. Does that mean that it’s expensive? Absolutely not! We work on a tier pricing system. For instance, a cut and blow dry will start at £20 to £26 for a stylist, carrying through to £42 to £46 for a cut and style with one of our directors.

“Colin has a wealth of experience in all aspects of hairdressing.”

EXPERIENCE Colouring will be personalized to the client’s needs as to what he or she wants to achieve and is discussed in full before a price is given. We believe we offer real value for money to our clients and that in this current economic climate, a trip to Gavin Alexander Salon needn’t break the bank. We also have incentives to help, including our unique Loyalty Card Programme and 15% discount on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Has the credit crunch affected you? Understandably, some clients are waiting longer in between appointments, particularly for colour but we believe with our pricing structure, this needn’t be the case. Unfortunately, we do see some clients falling foul of the home colouring kits and their complicated colouring systems which invariably cost a client far more to correct when things go wrong. Tell us more about your team. I will be spending much of my time at the Porthcawl salon to assist with background management. I feel it’s important that our clients know that I am here if required. Rachelle Simmonds is our Style Director and Salon Manager. Rachelle is very experienced and we

have every confidence in her abilities to manage the salon. Her team includes senior stylist Abbie Spencer Harty, stylists, Charlotte Lewis and Danielle Curling, graduate stylists, Rebecca Hearly and Zoe Davies and Laurie Richards, our trainee stylist. As we expand we intend to employ a further three stylists in the near future.

“Our stylists create styles to suit, you, your personality and lifestyle.” Photographs by Martin Phillips, Porthcawl www.martinphillipsphotography.com

So, the future looks bright… By the time this issue comes out we will have celebrated our first birthday at Porthcawl. I can’t believe how quickly the time has gone. It feels like only yesterday we were deciding on the décor and furnishings and opening our doors to the public. Luckily the excitement is still alive and kicking! We’re also excited that Gavin is back in the Cardiff Bay salon after a brief interlude. He missed the buzz of the Bay and his clients missed him dreadfully. He’s definitely glad to be back. We’re also launching the bar adjacent to the Cardiff Bay salon and will be offering this as a venue for private parties and corporate events. It’s been beautifully designed and, of course, the location overlooking the Bay is second to none. We’ve a busy time ahead! ❧ 31 ❧

Gavin Alexander Salon 53 New Road Porthcawl CF36 5DH 01656 788241 www.gavinalexander.com

Women of Porthcawl have long been crying out for somewhere to purchase gorgeous lingerie and swimwear. Leanne Crole has answered their prayers with a fabulous range to die for!

GIRLIE THINGS Why did you open Girlie Things? I always had a passion for luxury underwear and felt frustrated at the lack of availability of branded lingerie in my home town. Opening a lingerie store seemed like a logical step so I launched my own boutique in Neath in 2006 and then in Porthcawl in 2008. My passion for the product and a desire to work for myself after bringing up my children have helped me to develop an eye for lingerie that is beautiful yet practical for the modern woman.

Who are your customers? Girlie Things is all about enjoying the experience of buying high-quality, well-fitting underwear and our personal service helps to make that happen. We bring together branded lingerie in a contemporary setting, with an emphasis on superior fitting - at Girlie Things, fit is of paramount importance. We stock cup sizes A to JJ and back sizes 28 to 48 and we encourage every customer to make the most of our free fitting service by trained professional staff.

Why Porthcawl? One of the main reasons for choosing Porthcawl, besides it being my hometown, was its fashion conscious footfall, which includes a good mix of tourists and local shoppers. These days many of my customers travel from Cardiff, Newport and Chepstow.

Our customer ranges from seventeen year old fashionistas to ladies that lunch, tourists and women in their sixties enjoying their retirement. As you’d expect, over Christmas men make up a good percentage of our clientele. We also have a few celebrity regulars, but we don’t sell and tell!

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We also cater for brides, from hen night to honeymoon. Diamante hen party T shirts for the hen night, beautiful fitting underwear for your special dress and fantastic silks for your honeymoon, plus ‘just married’ bikinis’ as worn by many celebrities. Which brands do you stock? We offer many exclusive brands customers say they can’t find these labels anywhere else, as well as Lejaby, Elixir de Lingerie, Elle Macpherson Intimates & Boudoir, Fayreform, Fantasie, Freya, Fauve, Triumph, Panache and more. Girlie Things aims to provide our customers with a good selection of brands in a good range of sizes, styles and prices - bras range in price from £18 to £140.

I understand you can help women who’ve had surgical procedures? Yes, we can help women who have undergone mastectomy surgery. We offer private fittings and our staff have attended training programmes to ensure expertise in this area. We make every effort to engage with local hospitals and breast cancer nurses to ensure the client has all round advice and support. I like the décor. Tell me why you chose it. Girlie Things couldn’t be a more appropriate name for the lingerie business. The Porthcawl store has a girlie, fun atmosphere. The interior is decorated in pink and cream Zoffany wallpaper with co-coordinating drapes at the spacious changing rooms. We even have a pink till, and the stock looks fantastic against pale walls and oak flooring. The Neath store is on three floors and is an emporium for ‘all things girlie’ styled with chandeliers, gilt mirrors, swags and tails in duck egg blue and aubergine carpets, this store is a complete shopping experience. Which swimwear brands do you offer at Girlie Things? We are an independent all-year-round swimwear specialist. Brands include Moontide, Rasurel, Melissa Odabash, Fantasie, Freya, Miraclesuit, Chloe and Roberto Cavalli. We offer bra-sized swimsuits, tankini and bikini sets and separates alongside holiday accessories such as cover-ups, sarongs, kaftans, sandals and bags. Any recent developments? Our most recent addition to Girlie Things is our online shop where most of our collections can be purchased. We’ve just put ‘Girlie Things on the road’ into action, attending call centres, business centres and sports centres providing ladies with Free Fitting Days and introducing them to the advantages of beautifully fitting underwear. It’s all go here!

Girlie Things 79 John Street, Porthcawl 01656 784314 Also at: 47 Wind Street, Neath 01639 645486 www.girliethingswales.co.uk

“We also have a few celebrity regulars, but we don’t sell and tell!”

We might be at the height of summer but now is the time when people generally think about their next skiing holiday. We talk to powder afficionados Zack Starke and Jason Jeffery of The Ski Lodge in Barry who claim there’s no business like...

SNOW BUSINESS What are your backgrounds Zack? ZACK Well, I’ve skied from a young age and it has been a major driving force in my life. I’ve managed The Ski Lodge since 1996 and I’ve been lucky enough to indulge my love for skiing and have also been fortunate to have travelled to some fantastic winter locations around the world. JASON As a snowboarder I’ve travelled all over the world from Canada to New Zealand chasing winter! Career wise, my background is in product and graphic design. I spent a bit of time travelling and settled for a year in Australia, and on my return to the UK started working at The Ski Lodge. What are your roles in the business? ZACK As store manager, I oversee the day to day running. I like to have a very hands-on role and you’ll find me on the shop floor interacting with customers and staff on a daily basis. I am committed to delivering a high standard of customer service to all of our customers. There are many aspects to my role from sales, through to product buying and human resources management. JASON My role as creative and marketing manager sees me taking care of all the visual collateral and marketing material produced through the season as well as in store point of purchase, store interior design and layout through to designing and delivering our new website. I also plan and implement all marketing activities across the year and I’m involved in the product buying process. It’s a pretty diverse role.

Who started the business? Barrie Hill established the business in 1986.

Why Barry? At that time, snow and action sports were exploding in popularity and with the UK and particularly south Wales enjoying a big increase in participants, it made sense to provide those enthusiasts with a retail outlet where they could get their hands on the latest kit, right here in south Wales. What do you stock? We pride ourselves on providing a huge variety of products for every type of skier and snowboarder. Some of our biggest brands are also exclusive to us in Wales, such as high end performance ski outerwear brands like Spyder, Killy and Degre 7. We stock many of the world’s leading brands for both equipment and clothing like Salomon, Burton Snowboards, Atomic, Quiksilver, Roxy, The North Face, O’Neill, Animal, K2, Bonfire, Nitro, Oakley, Rossignol and many more. Who are your customers? We have a large number of loyal customers who have shopped with us for many years. We have customers that travel to us from London, the Midlands and the West Country. We like to think we cater for every snow enthusiast, from those lucky young individuals heading out for a season through to families taking their annual ski trip and people who are new to the sport. This is an area we feel a great sense of pride, in guiding people through the minefield of items available, offering guidance on what they need and, more importantly, those they don’t for a successful trip. Our price range is quite diverse, and so we cover a variety of budgets – skiing is a lot more accessible than it once was and kit is now available to all budgets. We also work very closely with a number of schools in helping introduce pupils to winter sports. For us, it is simply about passing on our passion to our customers and supplying them with the very best kit available. ❧ 34 ❧

Why do customers shop with you? We’re a dedicated winter sports store and we’re extremely passionate about what we do and have well over twenty years experience. Not only do we feel that we offer the very best range of products available, but we also pride ourselves on our first-class customer service delivered by a team of enthusiastic, highly experienced and informed staff who are happy to guide all customers through the products, answer any questions or simply exchange ski stories, triumphs, challenges or have a natter about favourite resorts.

Why is this a good time for customers to visit you? Right now is the best time to buy new kit here at The Ski Lodge. Not only are the products as technically advanced as they have ever been, but we are also currently in sale and as we are a specialised store have a great range of products still available this summer at greatly reduced prices. Couple this with the highly publicised strength of the euro increasing the cost of renting and purchasing in resort for the UK visitor and it makes sense to buy now in the UK. Skiers and snowboarders looking to get the most out of their money should really take advantage of the reduced prices available at this time of year in preparation for their next trip to the snow. Any new and exciting developments? It’s always exciting, we are looking forward to another great season of snow in Europe, but the biggest area of change for us is our website. This season we are launching an ecommerce website where customers will be able to buy online. This is extremely exciting for us as it allows the Ski Lodge brand to expand across the UK and open up the store to an even larger customer base as well as enabling us to stock any even wider range of products. We will also feature news blogs and offers to our customers to keep them at the forefront of what is happening at The Lodge.

“People spend a long time in the store immersing themselves in everything winter – we like to be the first stop on their next snow holiday.”

The Ski Lodge Cardiff Road, Barry CF62 2QW 01446 741870 www.skilodge.co.uk Image supplied by Animal www.animal.co.uk

HEALTH & WELLBEING Take good care of yourself with Vale Life’s guide to healthcare in the Vale VA L E

New cosmetic treatments available Vale Healthcare’s Cosmetic Clinic offers a range of surgical and nonsurgical aesthetic treatments in a friendly, caring and professional environment. The Cosmetics Clinic is led by Consultant Surgeons including Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon Kelvin Gomez. We talk to Kelvin about the current buzz around non-surgical Cosmetic treatments, and how he enjoys his professional life as a Cosmetic Surgeon… What’s your background and how did you get into Cosmetic Surgery? I was born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and educated in Malaysia, Australia and the UK, so you can say that I had a very cosmopolitan upbringing. I then trained at Cardiff University, did my postgraduate doctorate at the Cardiff Academic Breast Unit and undertook a Fellowship at the Welsh Burns and Plastics Surgery Unit in Morriston, prior to accepting my current post as a Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon.

Are there specific areas of Cosmetics that interest you more than others? My special cosmetic interests include Non-Surgical Breast Augmentation, Breast and Body Sculpting, Male Chest and Calf Enhancement and Facial Fillers. There are a host of new products out on the market that will help so many more people, and the treatments are all getting less invasive, which is always great news for our patients. What’s the hype around nonsurgical cosmetic enhancement? Non-surgical cosmetic procedures allow people to enhance their appearance without going under the knife. With breast enhancement specifically it is less expensive, less invasive, and the results are instant but unlike surgery the results do not last forever. If you are interested in breast enhancement it would be worth discussing both options with a qualified surgeon, as some patients may suit one option more than another. And when you’re not in the operating theatre, what do you do to relax and unwind? During the limited time I have away from surgery, I love playing a round or two of golf. My fiancée and I also love to travel and try to fit in one or two holidays a year. Our next big trip is a mountainous trek in Bhutan sometime at the end of the year and we’re really looking forward to it. To book a consultation with Kelvin, contact the Cosmetics Clinic at Vale Healthcare.

Vale Healthcare’s Cosmetics Clinic Cardiff Bay Clinic Celtic Gateway, Dunleavy Drive, Cardiff CF11 0SN 029 2083 6714 www.vale-healthcare.com

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FAQ S

Your Cosmetics questions answered! Which Cosmetic procedures are offered at Vale Healthcare? Procedures offered include Breast Enhancement - surgical and nonsurgical (Macrolane), Breast Reduction, Facial Rejuvenation, Wrinkle smoothing, Nose Re-shaping, Brow lift, Tummy tuck, Liposuction, and Male Chest & Calf Enhancement. For a full list of procedures available, contact the Cosmetics Clinic. I’m interested in breast enhancement but don’t want to have surgery. Are there other options? Yes there are. There is a new method of injecting a safe gel-like matrix of a substance that is found naturally within the body to enhance the size and shape of your breasts. The results are instant but unlike silicone implants the results do not last forever. If you are interested in breast enhancement it would be worth discussing both options with a qualified surgeon. How do I know about the qualification and experience of the Cosmetic Surgeons? All our Cosmetic Consultant Surgeons are highly qualified and experienced in cosmetic procedures. They are all registered on the Specialist Register of Plastic Surgeons with the General Medical Council, and are members of the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) and the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). How do I book a consultation with a Consultant Surgeon, and what happens afterwards? You can book an initial consultation by contacting our appointments department on 029 2083 6799. At the consultation, the consultant will tell you everything you need to know about the procedure so you can make an informed decision about whether to go ahead. While we can arrange the operation during this consultation, we encourage you to take a two-week ‘cooling off’ period, so that you can be 100% sure that you want to go ahead with the procedure.

In and Out in a Day… ORTHOPAEDICS & RHEUMATOLOGY CLINICS PHYSIOTHERAPY, REHABILITATION & TREATMENT CENTRE DIAGNOSTIC & INTERVENTIONAL SPINE CLINIC DERMATOLOGY CLINIC PAIN MANAGEMENT CLINIC GASTROENTEROLOGY & GENERAL SURGERY CLINICS COSMETIC CLINIC

Vale Healthcare has extended its existing surgical services at the Cardiff Bay Clinic to include procedures performed under General Anaesthetic as day-case patients. Our modern facility stands for the best in surgical care, and our medical staff and personnel are trained and experienced in outpatient surgical services. Surgical procedures available at the Cardiff Bay Clinic include:

EAR NOSE & THROAT CLINIC CARDIOLOGY CLINIC UROLOGY CLINIC OPHTHALMOLOGY CLINIC DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING BREAST CARE CLINIC

• • • • • •

Cosmetic surgery Cataract Removal Hand surgery Endoscopies General surgery including hernia repair Knee, Shoulder, Ankle and Wrist Arthroscopy

SPORTS MEDICINE CLINIC GYNAECOLOGY CLINIC NEUROLOGY CLINIC

To book a consultation with any of our Consultant Surgeons, or for more information about the surgical procedures available, please contact Vale Healthcare.

for info call: 029 2083 6714 www.vale-healthcare.com Working in partnership with

WHERE CARING COMES FIRST

Whether it’s just simple help or specialist nursing you require, April Complete Care Solutions based in Pencoed, Bridgend have an excellent reputation. Here, Vale Life speaks to Wendy Duckworth, Registered Manager, about the company’s philosophy and its comprehensive range of quality services. Hi Wendy, what’s your role at April Complete Care Solutions? I’m the Registered Manager for the company which was established in 1996. I started here as Human Resources Manager and through the strong ethos of learning and development at April, I have achieved my Level 4 RMA and received promotion to Registered Manager. This includes assessment and monitoring of nursing and care needs, co-ordination with other agencies and family members in order to achieve, develop and maintain the best possible nursing and care for the individual. What’s the company’s philosophy? We provide excellent nursing and care services to a broad range of people and organisations across south Wales. April provides an enabling service which recognises the differing needs of all clients in a manner which enhances their dignity and independence. Many of our clients have complex and diverse needs, some requiring 24 hour care, varying shift patterns, differing skills and different levels of personal care services. April has therefore established a fully extensive employee database, which undergoes continual rigorous assessment, training and scrutiny of our working practices. In order to be proactive, we actively encourage positive feedback from both clients and employees. Our database is managed 24 hours, seven days a week. Who formed the company? Mrs Debra Hooper formed Apex Nursing Services in 1996 and worked consistently to build a reputation for quality care and reliability. In October 2002, Apex Nursing Services and Apex for Lifelong Learning joined to become April Complete Care Solutions.

What services does April provide? April Complete Care Solutions is able to provide any type of care that the client requires from simple help to specialist nursing. This may include practical help and support for people at home with essential daily tasks they are unable to manage safely for themselves. This may be providing assistance to get up or go to bed, to get washed or to get dressed, or help with shopping, laundry, etc. Our aim is to help people live as independently as possible and to encourage people to regain skills they may have lost because of illness or disability. Many of our clients engage us for a short term to allow family members a break from providing care for a relative when a nursing or care home stay is not an option. We also provide nursing care to those clients with more specialist needs such as palliative care and severe physical disability. We provide care from three hours a day to 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

April Complete Care Solutions staff pictured left. Delyth Wilson, Deputy HR Manager and Booking Co-ordinator, Wendy Duckworth, Registered Manager, Mathew Hughes, Accounts Manager, Cerys Davies, Admin Asst

“We provide our service in client’s own homes, at times convenient to them, and in ways that they find most agreeable and adaptable and to ensure that our service provides value for money.” ❧ 39 ❧

We dedicate ourselves to providing an operating framework that is adaptable to meet the needs of a fast changing business environment, the needs of our staff and to ensure that our service provides value for money. We provide our service in client’s own homes, at times convenient to them, and in ways that they find most agreeable. How does it work? We provide for each client a package of care that contributes to his or her overall personal and healthcare needs and preferences. We ensure that a potential client’s needs and preferences are thoroughly assessed by one of our trained and experienced staff and that these needs are re-assessed regularly and that the care and support provided is flexible enough to respond to changing needs or requirements. April Complete Care Solutions provides nursing and care to a range of user groups including NHS hospitals, private hospitals, nursing and residential homes, elderly mentally infirm nursing, organisational practice and occupational health nursing, one to one private and social services nursing. Care is provided for older people, those with memory impairment, people with learning and/or physical disabilities, younger disabled, people who have head or spinal injuries, those who have a life threatening illness, people who have mental health problems, children and families.

We believe that the expertise within the management framework ensures that a complete package of service is available for clients and that staff employed by the agency are given the opportunity to develop through sound career advice and structured learning. The management and staff believe that by providing opportunities, facilities and support for training, employees are in possession of the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to perform their job to the highest standard. Where specific skills and experience are required both nurses and care workers will be placed specifically to meet those needs. All of our staff are carefully selected professionals who are trained, fully referenced and undergo security screening as part of a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) Enhanced Disclosure application. What is the most satisfying thing about your job? Knowing we are able to provide a consistent, reliable and effective service. One of the most rewarding aspects of my position is to meet with clients from all walks of life. It is lovely talking to clients and helping them to lead a normal life – everyday is different. LLANTWIT MAJOR

How April Complete Care has helped Huw Vale Life had the opportunity to see first hand the quality of services April Complete Care Solutions has to offer when we met two of their staff, Sandra Lewis and Lily Button with Ron Jenkins and his son Huw at their home in Llantwit Major. We asked Ron what life was like looking after Huw and how the team from April Complete Care Solutions made all of their lives that much easier. How old is Huw and what are his difficulties? Huw is 27 and he is severely disabled. How did you learn that Huw was disabled? My wife Sue was pregnant with twins but unfortunately lost one at 24 weeks. We took Huw home not knowing that there were any problems. When Huw was one, we were told that Huw had problems but they couldn’t tell us what the prognosis would be. Getting support was difficult. We both had busy jobs, I was a production foreman with Ely Paper Mill and Sue was a district nurse.

It helps me to understand the problems they face and gives me a better understanding of how we, as a company, can tailor our services to provide the best possible care. The effort and dedication of all our staff to deliver the service in all its aspects is particularly satisfying and I receive great support from all of my colleagues. I hope that I continue to play a part in ensuring our service continues to provide security and peace of mind for the vulnerable people in our care. What are the advantages for a family choosing to have their relative looked after at home? There are many things to consider when contemplating the care of a loved one. The choice of whether to opt for home care or to place them in a care home really comes down to choosing a greater level of independence and flexibility or a more fixed routine. Whilst there are many positives to care homes, they cannot offer bespoke oneto-one care in your own home on your own terms. Due to the nature of caring for a large group of individuals, they need to have fairly strict rules that keep the home running efficiently. They can’t always offer the flexibility of simple things like eating what you want, going to bed when you want or watching what you like on television.

These simple things are important when considering the mental wellbeing of your relative - beloved pets get to stay home too! The benefits of allowing the elderly to retain their individuality and independence in their later years cannot be underestimated. This is particularly true for dementia conditions where maintaining continuity and familiarity of routine is especially important. With the flexibility of home care, the family can visit on their own schedule and can have more hands on involvement if they choose to. What makes April Complete Care Solutions unique? When looking to ensure that your loved ones are going to be supported in a way that would maintain their independence and safety for as long as possible, you need to be confident that help is always at hand. The management team at April Complete Care Solutions have personally experienced the difficulty of accessing appropriate services for their dependants, and this is precisely why April Complete Care Solutions was launched in 1996. We simply could not find anyone else who was going to care in the way that we wanted them to! We also value our staff with the highest regard.

Did Huw go to school? Huw went to Maes y Coed School in Barry until that closed when he was about 13. It was then suggested that he go to Maes y Dyfan in Penarth. This would have meant a 45 minute journey each way to the school. In those days the buses weren’t that reliable and we were concerned that the length of time on a bus, making all of the stops needed would be more than Huw could cope with and we would be worrying if he got there at all! We had fantastic support from our local Councillor, Barry Doughty and with his help managed to get Huw into a facility locally until he was 19. Then his health deteriorated and we realised that he would need 24 hour care.

When did you realise that you needed extra help? When Huw's health deteriorated, his needs were more acute. Sue and I are both retired now and we’re not getting any younger. Huw needs 24 hour care and we were exhausted.

Has life got more difficult as Huw has got older? When Huw was younger and in better health, he travelled with us all over Europe in our motor home. Huw has travelled to America with us four times. What is perhaps difficult for people to understand is that although we have a disabled son, our family is not disabled. We want to give our child the experiences that other children enjoy, as much as is possible. Unfortunately Huw hasn’t been well enough for a number of years now so holidays with him have been curtailed.

What care do they provide? Sue and I look after Huw from 5.30pm until 10pm and then we get help through the night and then from 8am until 5.30pm Monday to Saturday. Huw gets fed constantly through a PEJ feeding system and has seizures. If he doesn’t get oxygen when needed, it could be fatal.

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How did you learn of April Complete Care Solutions? It was actually a social worker who suggested April Complete Care. Who are the carers from April? Lily is a carer and has looked after Huw for 11 years. Sandra is a qualified nurse and has cared for him for five years. Sandra and Lily are members of Huw's dedicated team of staff from April.

Huw starts his day at 8am with a bath and his care continues throughout the day. Lily and Sandra not only cater for Huw’s physical needs but they also show him affection.

This promotes motivation and enthusiasm within the workforce. Each quarter, we reward a member of staff with our ‘Employee of the Quarter’ award and we hold an annual awards ceremony for our staff and reward staff when we receive written or verbal compliments from their clients. We operate an ‘open door’ policy to all of our staff whereby they can call in at any time for advice and support. What keeps you at April Complete Care Solutions? I have been working in the care sector for 18 years and love working in this industry. April is totally different from any other organisation I’ve worked for. Staff are encouraged with development opportunities and personal fulfillment and we support them fully in achieving their ambitions. Some care staff have gone on to do their Nurse training and whereas they were once employed by us as a carer, they are now employed by us as a Qualified Nurse.

“The expertise within the management framework ensures that a complete package of service is available for clients and that staff are given the opportunity to develop through sound career advice and learning.” They are really tactile with him, stroking his forehead and his arms. They really care for Huw. Does Huw respond to this? Oh yes, he lets you know when he’s in a grouchy mood but also lets you know when he’s well and happy. He’s particularly vocal in the afternoon. He loves music. What does having this help mean to you and Sue? We can look after Huw through the day and we’re fresh for him. It’s no fun trying to look after a young man with severe disabilities when you’re tired yourselves. With April’s help I’ve managed to do a degree and I’m studying for more qualifications. Sue is a volunteer for Scope which befriends and supports parents with children with disabilities. Knowing that Huw’s needs can be catered for allows us peace of mind. April’s help and support is invaluable to us.

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April Complete Care Solutions Ltd 14 Hendre Road, Pencoed Bridgend CF35 5NW 01656 863963 info@aprilcare.co.uk www.aprilcare.co.uk

This issue we bring you a range of competitions with something to suit everyone!

COMPETITION WINNERS

VALE LIFE SPRING ISSUE 2009

P R O U D

T H E VA L E

T O

B E

FREE

WIN!

A prize worth over £1,500. Vale Life’s most exciting competition prize yet!

A helicopter ride and dinner, bed and breakfast at the luxurious Grade II listed Hurst House on the Marsh, Laugharne.

I N D E P E N D E N T

G L A M O R G A N ’S P R E M I E R L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

Here’s a chance for one lucky winner to win a helicopter ride and dinner, bed and breakfast at Hurst House on the Marsh in Laugharne. Tucked away on the far South-Western corner of the Welsh coast, Hurst House is an unexpected haven of luxury, a unique Grade II listed 18 bedroom hotel and spa dedicated to fine food, rest and relaxation.

SPRING INTO LIFE EXTREME

HAIR AT

KUDOS,

FABULOUS FASHION AT

BRYL’S

IN DEPTH FEATURES , MOTORING , WEDDINGS & TRAVEL

RESTAURANT REVIEWS, WHAT’S ON, BUSINESS, SHOPPING

THERE’S MORE ONLINE WWW . VALELIFE . CO . UK

PLUS A RT , B OOKS , S TYLE , HEALTH, HOMES AND MUCH MORE

Last issue’s lucky winners

POLO KIM SWEET Rhoose THE LINEN CUPBOARD SARAH JONES Abergavenny NANOR TASHDJIAN MRS J B THURGOOD Llantwit Major RHS SHOW H O WA R D B A R N E S Newport

Originally a 16th Century dairy farm, the hotel’s main house and restaurant overlooks acres of marshland and an organic kitchen garden, while a large courtyard is enclosed by beautifully renovated outhouses containing sumptuous bedrooms and a bijou spa. Laugharne, famous for having been the home of Dylan Thomas, may only be a couple of hours drive away, but why drive when you can arrive at your destination in style in a helicopter courtesy of Veritair. If you’ve never taken this mode of transport before, you will be in for a real treat. After your night’s stay at the hotel, the helicopter pilot will be on hand to whisk you back home in style. For more information visit www.hurst-house.co.uk. To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the question in the box below and either post your entry to: Hurst House Competition, Vale Life, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2AW. Or email your answer and contact details to jennifer@valelife.co.uk. Please type Hurst House as the title for your email.

✃

SUZANNE JAYA CLARE INGRAM Llantwit Major

You can win too!

Come on Vale Life readers! You have every chance of winning one of these fantastic prizes just like the lucky winners above.

Which famous poet lived in Laugharne?

Answer

Name Address

All competition entries must be received by September 7th 2009. Winners will be notified within 14 days and prize must be taken by October 31 2009.

Postcode Phone Email

Go for it! You’ve got to be in it, to win it!

If you do not wish to receive details of products and services from Vale Life or other companies, please tick the box provided.

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WIN! WIN! WIN! A Lovelinks bracelet from RMA Williams Jewellers

A voucher worth £100 to spend at Girlie Things

A silver Smarty-Party worth £350

With Summer well and truly on the way, there’s no better time to treat yourself, and your body, to some gorgeous underwear or swimwear courtesy of Girlie Things, Porthcawl.

Offering a selection of names you know and trust as well as jewellery you won’t find elsewhere, customers will find RMA Williams Jewellers an enjoyable shopping experience in a glamorous environment. As a very special offer to Vale Life readers mention Vale Life to get 10% off all Lovelinks purchases instore throughout July.

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the question in the box below and either post your entry to: Girlie Things Competition, Vale Life, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2AW. Or email your answer and contact details to jennifer@valelife.co.uk. Please type Girlie Things as the title for your email. Please see page 32 to find out more about Girlie Things.

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the question in the box below and either post your entry to: RMA Williams Competition, Vale Life, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2AW. Or email your answer and contact details to jennifer@valelife.co.uk. Please type RMA Williams as the title for your email.

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the question in the box below and either post your entry to: Smarty-Party Competition, Vale Life, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2AW. Or email your answer and contact details to jennifer@valelife.co.uk. Please type Smarty-Party as the title for your email.

✃

From exquisite costumes to luxury goody bags, Smarty-Party provides a top-end personal service for time-poor parents and carers. Simply choose a theme, and Smarty-Party will deliver the costumes, goody bags, invitations, thank-you notes, birthday candles and table confetti to the chosen venue. Smarty-Party caters for children from the ages of two to seven.

Please see page 24 to find out more about RMA Williams Jewellers.

What is RMA Williams’ website address?

Gone are the days when jelly and ice-cream in the living room cut it on the children’s party scene. Now only bespoke will do. Smarty-Party caters for some of the most deluxe kiddy gatherings and you could be in with a chance of winning one.

✃

Here is an exciting chance to win a Lovelinks bracelet and a pack of charm beads from a choice at RMA Williams Jewellers, Porthcawl.

A haven for all things girlie and glamourous, Girlie Things has underwear and swimwear to die for. If only I could enter...

Which town is Girlie Things based in?

Which age ranges do Smarty-Party cater for?

Answer

Name Address

Postcode Phone Email

If you do not wish to receive details of products and services from Vale Life or other companies, please tick the box provided.

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If you do not wish to receive details of products and services from Vale Life or other companies, please tick the box provided.

Suzanne Jaya, personal stylist and personal shopper answers your questions on fashion, style, health and beauty.

ASK

SARAH FROM PENARTH ASKS...

HELEN FROM COWBRIDGE ASKS...

I like to think of myself as a young fashion forward woman and I really want to find something a little bit different to wear for the usual round of summer parties or a special night out. My style is quite feminine but I want something that will work equally as well with heels or flat shoes. Where can I find something that will fit the bill?

I get really confused when cosmetic products are referred to as natural or organic. Are they really worth the money and how can I tell if a product is genuinely organic?

Look no further than Pink Zebra in Llantrisant Old Town. I never fail to find something absolutely fabulous in there. Check out the deliciously romantic and versatile Darling range which is taking the fashion world by storm. As you sound like a bit of a party animal you can kill two birds with one stone with the shoe dilemma. Tempt yourself with Red Foot foldable bejewelled pumps which you can slip into your handbag ready to put on after a night on the dance floor. There can be nothing worse than leaving a party and not being able to walk the distance to the taxi rank in your killer heels! With names like Dita and Sienna they add a touch of sparkle to any outfit. Priced at £29.95 they make a great addition to your wardrobe and are versatile enough to wear by the pool or even walking to and from work, so limiting the amount of time you spend in your heels. They’d look great with a Darling frock or even with a cute top and jeans! Pink Zebra 7A Swan St Llantrisant CF72 8ED 01443 449058 www.pinkzebraclothing.co.uk

Also Suzanne, can you recommend any skincare products or places to find them? Readers will know that I am obsessed about skincare ingredients, so I’ll do my best to demystify it for you and tell where you can get some really effective products. For a cosmetic product to be certified organic it has to pass rigorous checks to assure consumers that it contains only permitted ingredients, with minimum impact on the environment and no detrimental effects on human health. Constant and repeated exposure to certain synthetic preservatives can cause skin irritation and disrupt hormone activity among other things, so it makes sense to limit harmful substances entering the body. Organic standards determine which additives are used to preserve products and prevent contamination of the plant ingredients. The Cosmetics Organic Standard [COSMOS] defines the minimum requirements and common definitions for organic and natural cosmetics in Europe. It’s complex but in a nutshell, always look for the quality assured symbols on packaging. These include the UK Soil Association or Ecocert to name two. Free to Explore Beauty stocks a range of organic make-up, skincare products and treatments for women and men. ❧ 44 ❧

Pop along to the shop and VALE LIF salon to meet STAR E owner Miriam LETTER Holcombe and her knowledgeable staff, who are on hand to offer sound advice, plus give you more information on the ingredients and organic certification. Also check out the Free to Explore website if you prefer to buy on-line. Right now I’m hooked on their manicures using Zoya polishes which are as natural as is practically available and they come in a selection of juicy colours. Also a tinted facial fluid by Mádara that adds a sun-kissed natural look to the skin – perfect for the sunshy or to maintain a glowing suntan. But the best pick-me-up for a tired, dull complexion that requires an instant boost is the La Clarée [Oliv’] Radiance Elixir. Containing olive leaf extract, green tea, edelweiss and aloe vera, it’s ideal for anyone recovering from illness or to restore moisture to parched holiday skin. I’ve just tried their organic Luxury Oliv’ Radiance Facial that incorporates a number of products from the facial care system – divine. Ask about our loyalty scheme. Free to Explore Beauty 45a Talbot Road Talbot Green CF72 8AD 01443 224148 www.freetoexplorebeauty.co.uk A fantastic offer for Vale Life readers! Mention this letter to claim 5% off any treatment in our salon excluding the Perfector and Cell Communication treatments.

SUZANNE V GARLAND FROM NEWPORT ASKS...

I’m going to a wedding in August which will be a really smart affair. I always dread the thought of turning up in the same High Street frock as someone else but I’m not prepared to spend much more than £150 to look completely original. Help! Where can I find something in the local area that is a one-off and fits my budget? I like to look different, yet stylish. I know just the place. Forever Vintage in Penarth is a treasure trove of vintage and antique clothing, accessories and jewellery. There’s no doubt that you’ll find unique pieces that no one else will be wearing and it’ll look chic and timeless. With a simple bag and accessories you’ll be all set to wow the guests. The owner, Melanie Rhoden, sources pieces from the 1930’s to 1970’s with the emphasis being on 40’s and 50’s frocks and the stock changes on a regular basis. On another note, if readers have any vintage items they want to sell or exchange, please give Melanie a call. Forever Vintage 12a Royal Buildings, Stanwell Penarth CF64 3ED 07831 590518 m.rhoden@tiscali.co.uk

GAIL FROM WICK ASKS...

EMMA FROM BARRY ASKS...

My lovely husband is planning to take me on a cruise and I need a complete new wardrobe befitting a Captain’s table, can you help?

Hi Suzanne. My dog is constantly itching and it’s driving her mad (and me in the bargain!). I don’t want to use anything with harmful chemicals in to treat the problem. Can you suggest anything which will get rid of the itching using natural products?

You’re in luck. I know somewhere a bit special and off the beaten track with attentive service, and some great pieces for your holiday. Word has it that Katwalk has just completed an extension to its showroom and can now boast a much bigger range of wedding, evening and cruisewear. Helen Pick from Katwalk has the cutest countryside boutique, not far from the M4 so it's easily accessible. There's a choice of occasion and funky daywear for ladies who refuse to look anything but modern and gorgeous. Certainly she would be your first port of call (pardon the pun!). Expect nothing short of friendly, smiley service and the opportunity to try on clothes to your heart’s content. Good Luck, Bon Voyage and do let me know how you get on. Katwalk Llanharry, Vale of Glamorgan 10 minutes from Cowbridge and 5 minutes from Pontyclun Please phone Helen Pick to make an appointment on 01443 225482 Mobile 07973 463460

There are some excellent natural health products for animals available these days, the best I’ve come across is a range by leading animal herbalist, Ellen Collinson. The Range includes specialist herbal health products for dogs, horses and cats, holds Veterinary Medical Directive status and has a proven record of success with everything from household pets to racehorses in training. There are products that deal with all kinds of issues (too many to list here) one of which is a Skin Tonic and others which naturally eliminate worms, fleas, ticks and lice. A local stockist is Helen Wingstedt. Helen offers owners advice on the products as well as Natural Health Programmes and Healing. I hope this gets to the root of the problem. Helen can be contacted by phone on 07719 345616 or 02920 734081 or email helen@helenwingstedt.com

helenpick@yahoo.co.uk www.katwalk.co.uk (arriving soon)

Knowing that style is not just about appearances, but also in the way we conduct ourselves, how we relate to others or even the places we frequent, Vale Life sees the first in a regular Ask Suzanne column. Suzanne-Jaya is a freelance personal stylist, personal brand and image consultant based in Cardiff and works in and around South Wales and the West. She provides a complete style and image service for individuals and ❧ 45 ❧

You can visit her website at www.helenwingstedt.com

people in business to ensure that they create a positive and lasting impression. Suzanne writes, is a radio contributor and is a member of the Federation of Image Consultants. If you would like to ask Suzanne a question please contact her by telephone on 01443 229296 or 07833 780006 or email suzanne@suzannejaya.com www.suzannejaya.com

With so many conservatory businesses out there, how do you know who best to choose? Look no further than Leekes. Gareth Short, Conservatories and Glazing Category Manager at Leekes is just the man for the job.

THE GREAT INDOORS Gareth, how long have you worked at Leekes? I’ve been with Leekes for just over eight years. I’ve worked for some of the biggest names in the industry but wanted to experience working for one of the experts in the field, so I came to Leekes.

Why do customers choose Leekes for their conservatories? I think the reason that Leekes is so popular is because it’s a Welsh-based, family-owned business that’s been around for over 100 years. People want reassurance that they’re buying quality products from a specialist company who’ll be around to honour their work in years to come. Having faith in the company you buy from is more important now than ever before especially in the current climate.

Who are your typical customers? I really don’t think we have a typical customer - people’s wants and needs are so diverse. I can honestly say that no two orders are the same, so our bespoke approach is absolutely ideal as everyone wants something that works best for their individual lifestyle. One customer could be looking for a conservatory which provides some much needed ‘me time’, whilst another could have the whole family’s needs in mind as they opt for a garage conversation which is extra space for everyone to enjoy. What can Leekes offer that customers can’t get elsewhere? Our 360 degree Complete Service literally means that we think of everything so that our customers don’t have to. We take the stress out of the whole process. The service includes unrivalled choice, computer aided design, planning, base-work, installation and full aftercare. We even offer customers to take care of the planning permission side of things which can often be a long, drawn-out process, so the entire service really does make things as hassle free for our customers as possible.

What about aftercare? This is such an important part of the entire service we provide and because of our expertise in the field and the fact that we’ve been trading for many years, we’re able to offer our customers real peace of mind with our comprehensive ten year guarantee. This is backed up by our close-knit, experienced team of customer service people who are literally at the end of the phone should our customers have any queries. I’m closely involved with the team and will often go out on customer visit myself – it really is a tightly run operation.

“A big thank you to all the staff at Leekes for creating our dream conservatory. Everyone was very professional and polite. We look forward to many years of relaxing in the sun.” R.E and K.J Miller, Bristol

What type of projects do you get involved with? Well it’s not just about conservatories. Our range of products also includes glazing, doors, roofing products, garage conversations, orangeries, sun rooms – the list of what we offer under the umbrella of Conservatories and Glazing really is endless.

“From the initial design process right through to installation, Leekes were totally professional. I couldn’t be happier.” Mrs Cadwallader, Pontypridd

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Leekes Llantrisant Cowbridge Road, Pontyclun Rhondda Cynon Taff CF72 8XU 0845 050 8240 www.leekes.co.uk

LLANTRISANT

Leekes’ ‘sofa couture’ bespoke upholstery More than any other room in your home, your lounge reflects your personality and lifestyle the most. So, if you dare to be different, then you might want to consider the new Mark Webster ‘sofa couture’ bespoke upholstery range now available at Leekes, Llantrisant. Simply select the frame you want and choose from our huge range of upholstery fabrics from leading designer, Romo, for a sofa that really will take centre stage in your home. Mark Webster bespoke sofa - price on application Leekes Llantrisant Cowbridge Road, Pontyclun Rhondda Cynon Taff CF72 8XU 0845 050 8240 www.leekes.co.uk

P O R T H C AW L

Luxury fitted furniture with A&C Designs With over thirty years experience, Colin H. Bowen, trading as A&C Designs designs installs luxury fitted furniture for kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms. A&C Designs offers a complete service including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, wall tiling, floor tiling and decoration. It’s no wonder the talents of A&C Designs are much sought after as Colin trained as a carpenter, designer and surveyor for kitchens and bathrooms. Colin likes to work primarily on his own but also works with others for larger contracts.

Distributed by Multiwood Products

All work generally comes from recommendation and word of mouth and clients include professionals in the 30+ age group and upwards. Ask Colin what the current trend is in timber and he’ll say that solid timber comes and goes but high gloss seems to be in vogue at the moment. What attracts customers to A&C has to be Colin’s inventive designs, good planning and his eye for space. With a motto of ‘Always do your best’, it’s easy to see why A&C Designs is never short of work. If Colin did have any plans for the future, it would be only to wake up and to enjoy going to work.

A&C Designs 01656 783680

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VALE STYLE

COWBRIDGE

Exciting new labels at Pebble Pebble stocks lifestyle clothing for men and women with two shops in Cowbridge and Mumbles. Who are your customers? Our customers love ‘attention to detail’ in their clothing. Our male and female customers range in age from anything from 18 to 65+ years old. What brands do you stock? Our labels are as follows:- Odd Molly, White Stuff, French Connection, Ichi, Fornarina, Full Circle and Gas. We stock Truth charm bracelets and rings, handmade glass jewellery by Tanya Harris and handmade leather bags by Coterie.

What’s special about Pebble? Pebble feels like the customer’s own walk in wardrobe, with something to suit any occasion. Some of Fornarinas’ designs are pretty outrageous and, in contrast, Ottitude is a sophisticated eveningwear brand while White Stuff is a safe weekend wear brand. We search high and low for brands that offer beautiful clothing that our customers will adore. We stock handmade items, in particular glass jewellery by Tanya Harris and vintage bags by UpSticks Boutique. We also stock local designers, In particular, our Bobbi bags and interiors range are made of recycled fabric. We stock SeaSalt an organic cotton range based in Cornwall. We have a seamstress that we use to tailor items such as jean leg lengths. We also stock Odd Molly which is such a sought after Scandinavian label that we have people ringing up from all over the UK.

“Pebble feels like your own walk in wardrobe, with something to suit any occasion.” Fab bags from designer Tracy Watkins of Coterie.

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Summer fashions and accessories and fantastic spa pamper treats

Any new brands on the horizon? We are stocking Firetrap for both men and women from Autumn. The women’s collection looks amazing, using layering and texture and unusual materials. The clothes are very feminine with dark grey’s and blacks with hints of colour. Long knit cardigans are huge again this season, with tiny mini dresses underneath. Their stretch bandage type dresses look great. They also have the most incredible wet look coats and skinny jeans. The other label I love at the moment is Coterie. The designer (Tracey Watkins) is based in Haverfordwest. She makes leather handbags from remnant leather which are very unique with either buttons, keys or ripped edge detailing and have sold incredibly well so far. The Autumn collection for Odd Molly was awesome too - full of beautiful knitwear, velour hoodies and silk camisole tops and dresses! Pebble 5 Townhall Square Cowbridge CF71 7DD 01446 772127

73 Newton Road Mumbles SA3 4BL 01792 362366

C A R D I F F B AY

The sensational St. David’s Hotel & Spa When you’ve got the weight of the world on your shoulders or you’ve simply just got to find some time to reflect and relax, escape to the award-winning St. David’s Marine Spa that laps the edge of Cardiff Bay – a fabulous place to rejuvenate body, mind and soul. Soothing music, peace, quiet and that’s just our wonderful massage chairs. Feel great from the inside out when you get to the treatment room with an indulgent massage or detoxing facial. One treatment will never be enough, so there’s a range of half and full day spa packages that you can take advantage of. St David's Marine Spa Havannah Street Cardiff CF10 5SD 029 2031 3083 www.principal-hayley.com/thestdavids

COWBRIDGE

At last! Jeans Made in Heaven What does every fashionable woman want from a pair of jeans? A flattering fit, an enhanced derriere, the look of longer legs and jeans that are worn by the coolest girls in town. That’s definitely what you’ll get with Made in Heaven jeans available at Havana in Cowbridge. Mih jeans have been revived by Chloe Lonsdale whose godfather set up the company back in 1969. After a stint with Farhi working initially with Nicole and then the successful Farhi jeans line, Chloe decided to revive Made in Heaven.

“These jeans are flying out of the door. You can certainly tell the women walking past the shop in their Mih’s – they’ve got that certain air of confidence about them.”

The jeans are brilliantly cut to flatter the figure and, combined with their authentic London Heritage and retro modern vibe, offer a more timeless, classic product than all the LA denim labels.

Havana 87 Eastgate, Cowbridge CF71 7AA 01446 774807 info@havanaboutique.co.uk www.havanaboutique.co.uk

While the image has been updated, the goal still remains the same; using only the highest quality fabrics and the utmost attention to detail to create jeans that will not only look good, but last a lifetime.

Opening hours Mon - Sat 9.30am - 5.30pm

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The guys at Hamptons in Penarth are always an inspiration when it comes to trends and all things of a gorgeous nature. With this in mind, we asked them to predict this Summer’s...

OBJECTS OF DESIRE Andy and Peter admitted that they found selecting only a few products really challenging. “We have so many wonderful items within the store” said Andy, “that to choose just a handful was almost impossible. We’ve selected products from right across the store’s range so that anyone who may not have visited us yet will get an idea of what they might find at Hamptons.” Cushions Fabulous, fabulous and lets face it, they’re simply fabulous!

From the moment our American designed pebble cushions and rugs first arrived, our customers were grabbing them from the packing cases. They come in the most spectacular colours from zingy green to bubble gum pink and are made from the softest velour. We often find customers flinging off their manolos and squealing with delight as they sink into pure luxury. The latest addition to the range is ‘Spiky’ which is just as wonderful as ‘Pebble’ and resembles exotic sea urchins. And for those who want a slightly more formal look, the ‘Executive’ range, which is ‘up-cycled’ from tie manufacturing, shouts class.

“Hamptons have so many wonderful items within the store that to choose just a handful here was almost impossible.”

Furniture If you say furniture and then add contemporary, you have to add Terence Conran. At Hamptons we are fortunate to be the only stockist in Wales of the Content by Conran collection. The designs are slick, relaxed and informal with an enormous range of fabrics. Our current favourite is the ‘59th Street’ which ticks plenty of boxes when it comes to good design. Floating on chrome runners, the sofas and chairs are compact which may sound like estate agent speak for “tiny” but not so here. Perfect for apartment living, the mix of sizes makes it a much more flexible range. And using a variety of fabrics and textures from the same colour palette keeps the look sharp.

Kitchen Charisma At last we have found a range of kitchen accessories that combines fantastic design with practicality and fun. Imaging flipping pancakes with Herman, resting your spoon on Luigi or serving pasta with Gina - this range really has personality. Koziol products, made in Germany are 100 recyclable and every single item looks exactly as it would if asked to design itself. The colours are vibrant and robust and with summer here you can enjoy swatting those pesky insects with McFly Home Fragrance The days of whipping out the aerosol and filling the room with the heady aroma of Lily of the Valley are numbered. The new guys in town are scented reed diffusers. Simple but superbly effective they are just so much more desirable than a plastic igloo that smells of pine forests. Our latest collection from Wax Lyrical takes the diffuser to a higher plain.

Lighting Our favoured object of desire in the lighting arena has to be the ‘Bloomsbury’ which oozes sex appeal without even trying. The deep red glass base is perfectly contrasted with a red silk shade lined in black and the proportions are perfect. The ‘Bloomsbury’ works well as a statement piece or try using two either side of a sofa to inject colour into a neutral scheme. ❧ 50 ❧

“From the moment our American designed pebble cushions and rugs first arrived, our customers were grabbing them from the packing cases.” Flowers There was a time when just the mention of ‘artificial flowers’ conjured up visions of rather solid looking plastic blooms in garish colours. Happily, time has marched onwards and so have a talented team in Shropshire who have created the most realistic floribunda that we have ever seen. Arrangements in ‘magic water’ are and will continue to be, the big one this year. They are so realistic that customers have asked us how to care for some of the potted varieties. From orchids to bonsai, olive trees to blousy peonies, no one will know that your skills as a domestic goddess don’t run to flower arranging. Our top tip is to have several arrangements that you change with the seasons to keep your display looking fresh. This wonderful time saver allows you more time to spend sitting in the garden with a glass of wine admiring your beautifully kept lawn or at least the guy who cuts it now there’s an object of desire!

Bath Time Now let’s face it, the last thing you want after you’ve run a luxurious bath is to find that as soon as the bath bomb hits the water it takes on a life of its own and bounces back and fore across the bath like a rather girlie torpedo. Happily at Hamptons our Bon Bombs and Bath Creamers have a rather more refined approach when it comes to water. They simply ooze gorgeous essential oils, cocoa and shea butters into the bath filling it with a subtle fragrance that leaves you feeling relaxed and pampered. Our collections look good enough to eat and actually a few have tried, but we guarantee that you’ll find the experience sublime and not ridiculous.

Cards It’s time to blow our own trumpet as the cards at Hamptons really have proved to be objects of desire with our customers. So much so that we have made the finals for Best Department Store Retailer of Greetings Cards, 2009. Now the Retas, as they are affectionately known might not sound as impressive as the Oscars but the other four finalists include John Lewis on London’s Oxford street so we think that it’s pretty impressive for little old us to be up there with the big boys. We know it’s a bit of a ‘David and Goliath’ scenario but all we need is a sling and a small pebble... ❧ 51 ❧

Hamptons 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth CF64 1EA 029 2070 5391 www.hamptons-design.co.uk

Are you struggling with the recession? The Business Centre may have the solution with affordable office space.

JUST THE BUSINESS With the financial markets suffering from the fallout of the credit crunch and with growing acceptance that 2009 will be tough for all sectors, some businesses in the Vale of Glamorgan are taking precautions to ensure they can minimise exposure to risk where they possibly can.

Other benefits for clients to enjoy at The Business Centre are, access to business storage and support services such as conference and meeting room hire, secretarial and admin assistance without the need for employing extra staff. These services are also available to companies who are not resident at The Business Centre.

Taking out traditional ten, fifteen or twenty year leases does not allow you much flexibility which is why so many companies are looking to a more flexible and risk adverse route. In addition, as of April 2008, companies have had the added motivation to avoid having unused office space on their books as they now have to pay full business rates on office space left empty for more than three months. One way they can avoid this is to operate their business from The Business Centre as they can expand and contract to reflect their income.

For further information please contact Lynnette Knight on 0800 6349920 and discover how being at The Business Centre during a recession is the best place to be. Lynnette says, “Not only can we promise to save you money on your running costs but we can also introduce you to other like-minded business people who may want to do business with you.”

One company that did just that are Purple Contracts. Owner, Glen Newman said, “We wanted to take some new staff on in January, but at the time our office was too small. No problem… we simply moved to a slightly larger office in The Business Centre. Then, if our situation changes again and we need to downsize, we’ll just back to a smaller one. It means we are only ever paying for the exact size of office that we need. Brilliant!” For those businesses still wanting to start up in a recession or for existing businesses that want to reduce and fix their operating costs, then taking office space in The Business Centre is an ideal option. Low move-in costs, short lead times and access to up to date IT and telecoms equipment and services, which can be rented by the week with no capital outlay are some of the benefits.

The Business Centre Cardiff House Cardiff Road, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2AW 0800 6349920 enquiries@thebusinesscentreonline.co.uk www.thebusinesscentreonline.co.uk

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“Mason’s most recent venture The Business Centre, provides serviced offices, telephone answering, conference and meeting room facilities in the Vale of Glamorgan.”

“Taking office space in The Business Centre is an ideal option in the current economic climate.”

MOVE FOR FREE WITH MASONS MOVING GROUP In 1905 Mason’s used a horse and cart and since those humble beginnings, the company has changed beyond recognition. Nowadays, Mason’s is a modern, international company. Their most recent venture The Business Centre, provides serviced offices, telephone answering, conference and meeting room facilities in the Vale. To celebrate their success, Mason’s will move any company absolutely free of charge, within a radius of 25 miles, who take office space at The Business Centre.* In addition, Space Centre Self Storage next door to The Business Centre is offering a 10% monthly rental discount if customers sign an agreement for a minimum six month period. Space Self Storage is the only self storage company in The Vale and offers private storage rooms ranging from 25 to 5,000 square feet.

“Mason’s is a modern, international company.” Space Centre Self Storage Priority Enterprise Park Barry CF63 2BG 01446 700799 enquiries@space4storage.co.uk www.space4storage.co.uk

Space Centre is secured by state of the art CCTV and customers have their own lock and key to can gain free access as often as they want within office hours. Should you have a need for extra storage space for your archives, business stock or household effects, please do not hesitate to contact the Space Centre Team. *Subject to terms and conditions.

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Mason’s Moving Group Ltd Storage House Priority Enterprise Park Cardiff Road Barry CF63 2BG 01446 733330 enquiries@masonsmovingroup.co.uk www.masonsmovingroup.co.uk

VALE BUSINESS A round up of business news in the Vale. COWBRIDGE

New terrace opens for summer Good news for those who enjoy eating al fresco as The Market Place in Cowbridge has now opened its terraces to take advantage of the heatwave that the meteorologists are promising. The restaurant, which has a growing following thanks to talented chef Tim Marriott, is set in one of the most historic buildings in the historic town of Cowbridge which exudes a timeless atmosphere. The original house was built onto the medieval town walls adjacent to the West Gate, which is now the restaurant. The restaurant is deceptively large with the ground floor catering for up to 75 diners, the first floor function area catering for up to 28 people and the terrace and garden can fit 35. They also have a private dining den for up to 10 diners. Whereas the log fire keeps diners warm and contents on those cold winter nights, the new terrace is sure to be a hit with those looking to make the most of the sunshine. C A R D I F F A N D T H E VA L E

Learn a new skill and meet new people As an experienced, local Interior Designer, Gail Speck knows the importance of training and inspiring people, especially in today’s turbulent and uncertain economic times.

“The Market Place in Cowbridge is set in one of the most historic buildings in the town.”

The Market Place 66 High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AH Bookings 01446 774 800 enq@the-marketplace.co.uk www.the-marketplace.co.uk

“Interior Design & CAD Workshops offers Saturday and mid week short courses in Interior Design and other related subjects,” Gail says. “We find that companies approach us as they are downsizing and need smaller premises. We make sure they all fit in before they commit to a long and expensive lease. By using us, we remain impartial and are not trying to sell them office furniture! A wide range of people attend our workshops – those who have always wanted to be a designer to established designers wanting to use CAD to compliment their existing skills. Workshops are small, friendly and relaxed. People who attend come away with a sense of achievement, they have learned something inspired new and are inspired.”

“Workshops are small, friendly and relaxed. People who attend come away with a sense of achievement.” ❧ 54 ❧

No previous experience is needed to join a workshop and courses are run at regular intervals in Cardiff, Bath, Bristol and Exeter. So, if you have a friend or relative who would benefit, buy them a gift voucher and give the gift of learning amongst like-minded people. Come along and be inspired! Full details can be found online at www.interiordesign-workshops.com Or if you are unsure which course is for you please phone 07777 663230

COWBRIDGE

The recent Vale Marketing Group networking event ‘Food in Tourism’ was hailed a great success. Over 80 businesses attended the event, held in the elegant surrounding of the St Quentin Suite in The Bear Hotel in Cowbridge.

The speakers, Sandy Greenslade from the Monmouthshire based Adventa, winners of the food in Tourism award last year, and Angharad Wynne (Sense of Place) gave excellent presentations giving rise to many questions from the audience. Mandy Davies, VMG Chair said, “It was good to see a wide variety of businesses represented, not only the VMG business members, but associated bodies and producers and to welcome new faces to the group.”

Andrew Davies AM opened proceedings with an animated and enthusiastic address outlining the link between regional food and tourism and underlining the importance of tourism to our economy.

Many, many thanks to the VMG committee, volunteers to the last, without all your efforts and dedication all that we have achieved, and aim to achieve in the future, would not be possible.

Vale Marketing Group’s Food in Tourism

B A R RY

Barry Business Club is having a ball! Barry Business Club held their AGM recently at popular Mount Sorrel Hotel. Outgoing Chairman Dave Wells thanked his committee for their help with his very successful year that included speakers Mervyn Davies and John Dawes from the rugby world, Niki Piper retired Welsh Boxer, and husband and wife team Mark Roberts and Jennifer HobbsRoberts, editors of the popular Vale Life and City Life magazines. The new Chairman Chris Trigg with Vice Chairman Mike Hopkins and House Chair Lynnette Knight will be taking the Business Club into their 25th year, which will be celebrated on the 12th September with a Summer Ball at Wenvoe Golf Club. Barry Business Club meets at the Mount sorrel hotel every third Thursday of the month and would be delighted to welcome new members.

Back Row: Adrian Greason-Walker SEWalesTourism Forum, Andrew Davies AM. Front Row: Angharad Wynne (Sense of Place), Mandy Davies (VMG) , Sandy Greenslade (Adventa)

For further information please contact Lynnette Knight at lynnette@thebusinesscentreonline.co.uk

PENARTH

The pirates are coming to Penarth As part of the Penarth Summer Festival Penarth, Penarth town centre will become a ‘Pirate Town’ on Saturday 18th July. The action takes place in Lower Glebe Street and the organisers, Penarth Chamber of Trade will be welcoming all landlubbers and scurvy dogs to join in the family fun. Pirate themed activities will include ‘talk like a pirate’ workshops, a pirate sandcastle competition – the beach is being transported to the town centre – make a pirate hat and eye patch, pirate cup cake decorating, face painting and hurling wet sea sponges at pirate prisoners in the town stocks. People are being encouraged to dress as pirates on the day or to wear a pirate eye patch or moustache.

Mystery pirate watchers will be handing out prizes to people who dress up and shop owners will be rewarding customers who visit their shops and speak like a pirate as they come in. In the two weeks leading up to Pirate Day many of the shops in Penarth will be decorating their shop windows with Pirate themed displays and there will be a public and panel vote to choose the best window.

Children will also be taking art in a Pirate Treasure Trail sound the shops to win computer equipment for their schools. Pirate Day concludes with the Penarth Summer Parade through the town at 4.45pm and the fun continues on the seafront with love music all evening concluding with the annual firework display at 10pm. www.penarthfestival.com

Welsh artist Vernon Jones is gaining a reputation as one of the finest seascape artists working today. Vale Life met Vernon to find out what inspires him.

WAVELENGTH What’s your most challenging painting to date? It was a commission not so long ago, which was from a gentleman who wanted me to paint a trolley bus with the view down St. Mary Street in Cardiff. It was very difficult to imagine the cables as I had no knowledge of the era and had to use pictorial references from the period to try to understand the layout! In the end I got it, and the client was very happy with the result.

Tell us about yourself I was born in Pontypool and educated there, until leaving to study for an H.N.D. in Design/Wildlife Illustration at CCTA Gelli Aur, West Wales. I have lived and worked in different parts of the UK and I enjoy socialising and meeting new people, and discovering new concepts. Travel is also very important to me. Please tell us about your art… It’s an exploration of the sea, with land and sky elements included in the composition in most cases. It is a subject that I can relate to as, with most of us probably, fire can hold our gaze, so the sea and its various ‘moods’ does for me. I love the detail and the differing vistas, which I strive for in my work. It is important for me to balance all parts and elements, and in this way my painting becomes a problem solving exercise which I enjoy. But I also need to keep the motion of the sea, and this needs freedom. Control and freedom together must ‘feel’ balanced and in harmony with whatever is surrounding or next to any one part of the painting. The final composition, above all, must attain this feel of balance. Have you a lifelong ambition? I’d like to be successful in my work, and also in my life. It’s a mixture of what I want and what I need. What I want may not always be what I need. In this way I set myself goals.

What do you do to relax? Cafés are a big favourite of mine. Just taking time to sit and relax with coffee or tea, by myself or with others. I also enjoy restaurants, walking and films. When I can, I try to get to the sea, get the wet suit on and show people how not to stay on your surf board! Its fun... I also love photographing the sea, and I’m always looking to build on my own reference library of interesting studies and compositions of the sea. What’s the most memorable thing that’s happened to you? I travelled to Norway via Finland a good many years ago, and found myself camping alone at the edge of a fjord. It was a still night, very peaceful with no one around and, for the first time, I saw what must have been the Northern Lights. I sat looking out to sea playing my bodhran, which is a type of drum, surrounded by this peace and nature. That was a beautiful place.

“My works are an exploration of the sea, with land and sky elements included in the composition.” ❧ 56 ❧

You can view Vernon’s works at the following venues. July Petrovac Na Moru, Montenegro August Washington Gallery, Penarth, October Galleria Micro, Torino, Italy Vernon also welcomes commissioned pieces from individuals and companies.

Vernon Jones vernon.jones@hotmail.co.uk www.vernonwjones.co.uk UK 0044 (0)7963 297 363 Macedonia 00389 (0)70 840 067

Welcome to Vale Life magazine’s Social Life section, a veritable who’s who of the Vale of Glamorgan.

VALE

S T D O N AT S

Julian Lloyd Webber One of the world’s most internationally renowned musicians, Julian Lloyd Webber, recently performed live in the stunning St Donats Castle in the Vale of Glamorgan. Following a marvellous champagne and strawberries reception, Julian performed pieces by his father William as well as his brother and guests were also given some insights into his famous brother, Andrew Lloyd Webber. Other favourite classics included and Bach, Faure, Saint Saens and Debussy. Julian, was accompanied by pianist Pam Chowhan. Julian, who has been described as a cellist of extraordinary class, also reminisced on his many collaborations with musicians such as Yehudi Menuhin, Georg Solti, Cleo Laine, Stephane Grappelli and Elton John. The concert was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Bethany & Miriam Maughan

Mrs & Mr Watson and Graham Benfield (VC of Arts Centre)

St Donats Arts Centre St Donats Castle CF61 1WF Box office 01446 799100 Minicom 01446 799102 enquiries@stdonats.com www.stdonats.com Rhian Mounter & Nancy Yeo

Julian Lloyd Webber

John Clarke, Joy Christopher, Richard Christopher, Lynda Clarke

Councillor Russell Downe (Town Mayor of Llantwit Major), Jon & Vi Harris (Mayor Cowbridge & Llanblethian), Jeff Tildesley (Mayor of the County Borough of Bridgend)

ST DONATS “Award-winning architecture, stunning coastal setting and a medieval castle sets us apart from the ordinary.” St Donats Arts Centre, St Donats Castle CF61 1WF Telephone 01446 799104

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SOCIAL LIFE B A R RY

James Bond Evening A great night was had by all at the Mount Sorrel Hotel in Barry at the James Bond Gala Evening. Barry’s great and the good were suitably attired and enjoyed a sumptuous five course dinner, fun casino, and disco until 1am. Gary – owner of DB9

Jenny Jenkins, Natalie Perrett

The hotel’s new manager, Julie Bannon was Hostess for the evening and pulled out all of the stops to entertain her guests. A raffle of fantastic prizes raised a handsome sum towards the chosen charity. Mount Sorrel Hotel Porthkerry Road, Barry CF62 7XY 01446 740069 reservations@mountsorrel.co.uk www.bw-mountsorrelhotel.co.uk

Julie Bannon, General Manager, Mount Sorrel Hotel

Gill Swayne-Jones and Allun Jones, Ellie and Barrie Kingdon

Alun and Lorraine Punter

Paul and Sandy Carter

Bob Armstrong (Dr Bob), George Armstrong

Alan Williams, Peter Walden, Ann Williams, Dr. Alun Williams, Joan Walden, Wendy Brown, Geoff Brown, Julia Holloman, Vivienne Williams, David Holloman

James and Hannah Rowlands (James of Spiritual Machines, Cardiff based rock band fame)

Create the perfect atmosphere for your event Offices in Cardiff, Bristol and Chepstow Telephone 01446 772739 www.countymarquees.co.uk

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Choosing the right photographer for your wedding is an important decision and with over 30 years’ experience in photography, Ann Clark is the perfect choice.

EXPOSURE With so many photographers advertising in the glossies, how to choose the right one is a real challenge. Vale Life has narrowed them down to one...

On a wedding coverage the majority of our photographs are informal, with the groups tidied up. By showing people how to pose correctly you can make them look ten pounds lighter!

Ann, what’s your background? At the age of seven I was given a Polaroid camera for my birthday which started my passion for photography. When I was eighteen, a friend asked me to take his wedding photographs. Other people saw the album and bookings snowballed.

Why do you think couples choose you to cover their weddings? We have over thirty years’ experience in the photography business and have gained a reputation for reliability and professionalism. I have a wacky sense of humour and we soon have a nervous couple laughing and enjoying their day. From the start at the bride’s house we are not only capturing the day, but have been known to dress many ladies running late for the church! We like to be as unobtrusive as possible, but can also cover the day on time without the couple feeling they have been taken away from their guests for too long.

What training have you had? When I started 31 years ago the classically posed photographs were all that was around. I trained through the Guild and gained a Craftsman award with them and carried on training and development with the British Institute and Master Photographers Assoc. Why did you choose photography? Photography eventually chose me! I had planned on being a civil servant, but kept getting requests to photograph events and be paid for what I love to do. What’s your style of photography? Although classically trained, the recent upsurge in a more informal style of photography has enabled me to express more creativity and flair. I love the challenge of finding a new way of looking at a subject – either by changing viewpoint or background. Although a photograph may not look posed, the planning has still gone on beforehand to make sure the lighting is right at that time of day for that particular location. Some of our best and most memorable images are catching a moment, because we were in the right place at the right time.

Does it help that you’re a woman? Definitely. I like to think that I am looking out for the attention to details, which many men would miss. I know how much time and effort a couple put into the appearance of a wedding and strive to capture in my photographs the perfect images they planned. Also, on the wedding morning the bride feels perfectly at ease with another woman. Children soon become my friends and we can capture some great moments. What do you do differently from other wedding photographers? On most weddings we are there from bride’s preparations through to the speeches. Most importantly, we spend a lot of time after the wedding retouching any photographs where necessary. Any blemishes, stray strands of hair and even the thinning spot on the groom’s head are retouched to make our couple look perfect. Also, there are two photographers at weddings, so between us we capture everything and from different angles. Do you follow the latest trends? We are constantly aware of the latest trends in photography and album presentation, but adapt these to our style and our clients’ needs. ❧ 60 ❧

Tell us about your portrait photography. I have gone away totally from posed studio shots and really enjoy the creativity of being able to capture people relaxed and in a familiar environment, such as the beach, park or their own homes. You’ve won some pretty impressive photography awards. Please tell us about them. We are very proud to have won the Welsh Master Wedding Photographer of the Year award twice – the last time being 2008/09. Also, we were given an award of Excellence for ‘outstanding photographic skill and excellence in imaging’ by the Master Photographers Assoc. Recently I have been able to expand my passion for photography into landscapes and have just won a national gold award for a photograph taken in the February snow. What is your work motto? The customer is most important and we will do our utmost to achieve their photographic aspirations. What are your plans for the future? In 2009 and into 2010 we are looking to maintain our workflow in a difficult economic environment and, so far, are bucking the trend in the industry and enjoying a boom.

Ann Clark Photography Ty Ellis, Treoes, nr Bridgend CF35 5DH Studio 01656 650447 Mobile 07986 549004 ann@annclarkphoto.co.uk www.annclarkphoto.co.uk

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I know how much time and effort a couple put into the appearance of a wedding and strive to capture in my photographs the perfect images they planned.â&#x20AC;?

There’s a rumbling in the quiet market town of Cowbridge. Probably the best known family lawyer practising in south east Wales and into west Wales has opened an office on the High Street. There are pretenders to this particular crown but Vale Life catches up with the original.

THE REAL DEAL Who are you and what do you do? I’m Wendy Hopkins and I’m probably the best known family lawyer practising in south east Wales and into west Wales generally. I specialise in high profile and high value divorce and financial matters flowing from them. How long has your company Hopkins Law been established? Hopkins Law was established in February 2006 when I left a former practice to set up my own. That former practice had been started with my personal name and had continued for nine years until I left. What’s the history of the company? My personal history is that I qualified as a lawyer some 30 years ago and at that time divorce and family breakdown was not as prevalent in the UK as it is today. I initially combined my family work with property and general private client work. During the late 80’s and 90’s and into the twenty first century, as the need grew, I increasingly act for high value/high profile individuals. In 1996 I left Eversheds where I had been a Senior Partner and Board Member for seventeen years and set up with a newly qualified solicitor a specialist family law practice. The reason I left Eversheds was that I had become divorced myself a few years earlier and had two young children with whom I wanted to spend more time. I reduced my professional life for a few years until my children became older. Nine years later differences arose between myself and the two other partners of that practice. As they both had young children, and my children were then largely off my hands, I decided to start my own sole practice.

“I am fiercely loyal and committed to my clients and am strong on their behalf.”

What services do you provide? In the new practice I decided not only to do family work, but also to expand the services into general private client work to include property, wills, probate, and some general litigation, to cover most of the legal needs of the individual. Who are your customers? The Cowbridge office largely serves the Vale of Glamorgan and westwards, such as Swansea and West Wales. The office at Cardiff Gate Business Park largely serves the Lisvane, Llanedyrn, Gwent, and eastwards as far as Hereford, Monmouth etc. The Windsor Place office deals with clients who want to see me personally and who also find attending at a central Cardiff office is the most convenient location. Why did you choose Cowbridge to set up your new practice? I had a restriction in not being able to practice within five miles of the centre of Cardiff for 12 months from February 2006. I had previously lived at Llantrithyd in the Vale of Glamorgan, and had many friends in the area and decided I would open a small office to just have a low key practice. I also felt there was a gap in the market in Cowbridge as previously there had been a number of firms of solicitors who had subsequently either merged or ceased practising. The demand for my services outgrew the office in Cowbridge, and as I was still within the twelve month restriction period for returning to the centre of Cardiff, I opened another office at Cardiff Gate Business Park. In June 2007, I opened my central Cardiff office at 26 Windsor Place. As the offices at Cowbridge and Cardiff Gate were thriving, I have continued to operate the three offices. The Cowbridge office has continued to attract clients and we have moved into larger premises at 50 High Street. ❧ 62 ❧

I understand that there’s another practice with your name in its title. What’s the connection? The other practice with my name on it is the practice I left in 2006 and they can continue to trade in the same name as when I left, which they have done. There is absolutely no connection between that previous practice and myself, nor has there been since March 2006. I had expected that more than three years later they would stop using my name within the name of their practice, but they have not. Wendy, you have a reputation as being a bit fierce, how do you feel about that? I do have the reputation of being a ‘rottweiler’, but the rottweiler is as misunderstood as I. I am fiercely loyal and committed to my clients and am strong on their behalf. Having been divorced and a single working mother I have great empathy with male and female clients who are often in a very fragile and vulnerable state during family proceedings. I advise my clients in what I consider to be their best interests, but act in accordance with whatever instructions they choose to give me arising on that advice. The ongoing personal recommendations that I receive which have grown my practice to a very successful one in just over three years is a testament to my personal and commercial skills and experience in acting always in the best interests of my clients to their satisfaction. What are your plans for the future? I have three successful offices with an increasing excellent team of lawyers dealing, not only with family and children matters, but all private client issues, and I propose that Hopkins Law continues to provide the best service possible to the private client in south east Wales and beyond with me at the helm.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Having been divorced and a single working mother I have great empathy with male and female clients who are often in a very fragile and vulnerable state during family proceedings.â&#x20AC;?

Cowbridge Office 50 - 50A High Street Cowbridge CF71 7AH 01446 77 41 51 Enquiries3@hopkinslawllp.com Central Cardiff Office First Floor, 26 Windsor Place Cardiff CF10 3BZ 029 2039 5888 Enquiries@hopkinslawllp.com Cardiff Gate Office 3 Ashtree Court Cardiff Gate Business Park CF23 8RW 029 2073 3000 Enquiries2@hopkinslawllp.com www.hopkinslawllp.com Photograph courtesy of Mark Bradwick Photography. www.markbradwick.com

DELI

We asked lots of people to recommend their favourite deli’s. Here are a selection whose names kept coming up again and again. I don’t know about you, but I absolutely love everything about a local delicatessen. The smell that greets you as soon as you walk in, the counters jam packed full of scrumptious goodies that shout, “buy me now, take me home and I’ll reward you by bringing pleasure to your tastebuds”.... it doesn’t take much for me to succumb to these culinary wonders!

Here are 5 favourites...

Farthings At Home

Food for Thought

Now that the sun is shining, many establishments have delightful tables and chairs outside to sit and eat said goodies with a cup of exceptionally good coffee, or a well deserved glass of wine and spend the time people watching. We’re lucky enough in the Vale to have quite a few deli’s to choose from. We’ve asked lots of people to recommend their favourites.

31 High Street, Cowbridge 01446 773545

12 High Street, Barry 01446 735711

Farthings describes itself as ‘The Exquisite Taste Of Cowbridge’ and we couldn’t agree more. It’s so very ‘Cowbridge’ and as the baby sister to the very successful Farthings restaurant it performs its role beautifully.

This family run deli is well loved by it’s regulars and one visit will confirm why. David Keeble, the owner, brought the idea back from America 24 years ago. In case you’re wondering, Dave had a catering company called Toad In The Hole which used to look after the catering for Queen, Eric Clapton and Bruce Springsteen (to name a few) while they were on tour.

Gorgeous quiches and lunchtime salads have an adoring fanbase and if you happen to work within walking distance, chances are this establishment will take some responsibility for wrecking a few diets and making some a success, depending on what you choose from the counter.

Wife Linda, son Nathan and daughter-inlaw Sarah all work in the business. It’s open from 7am, six days a week and does all the things a good deli should extremely well.

FA M O U S F O R . . .

■ ■ ■ ■

Home made desserts Buffets/canapes to go Picnic hampers for the summer Wide selection of cheeses and meats

Home made chicken tikka baguettes Home made corned beef pasties Home made coleslaw Delicious selection of cakes

YO U L OV E D . . .

The tastiest olives known to man, great selection of salads, knowledgeable staff.

Friendly service, lunchtime baguettes and home cooked hams and meats.

Win £25 to spend at your favourite deli! You can enter by either writing to us or sending an email. Put Deli Competition on your entry and the details as follows: ■ ■ ■ ■

Your name Your address Contact telephone number Your email address

Complete the following: My favourite deli is... I love it because... Please send your entries to us by September 7th 2009. Good luck.

“Farthings describes itself “Open from 7am, six as ‘The Exquisite Taste days a week and does all Of Cowbridge’ and we the things a good deli couldn’t agree more.” should - extremely well.” ❧ 64 ❧

DELIGHTS The Delicatessen

The Wild Blackberry

Home and Colonial

24 Cowbridge Road, Pontyclun 01443 225579

5 Elm Grove Road, Dinas Powys 029 2051 5509

64 John Street, Porthcawl 01656 773793

The Delicatessen is owned and run by Jayne Watts and, although it has only been open for a short time, it has impressed itself on the local community and the surrounding area with very pleasing results. Jayne has a wealth of experience in the catering business, combined with a passion for local produce and good home cooking.

Situated in the historic old village of Dinas Powys The Wild Blackberry Delicatessen & Coffee Shop is a family business with a friendly atmosphere, specialising in Italian Lavazza coffee. A wide range of freshly prepared salads is available to eat in or take away, as are baguettes, sandwiches, wraps and paninis which are freshly prepared to your own personal choice. Organic bread, milk, eggs and Camarthenshire ham, along with a wide selection of cheeses are on sale here. Wild Fig ice creams, Wendy Brandon Preserves, Fabulous Welshcakes, Atkins & Potts sauces and pickles are just a few of the many delights to be found here.

A fabulous new bakery and delicatessen selling fine quality and handmade foods is now open in Porthcawl’s town centre. Owned by husband and wife team, Stuart and Abbe Vaughan, Home and Colonial Fine foods boasts freshly made in-store breads, pies, and pastries, along with a mouth watering selection of pâtés, quiche, cakes, and cheeses. In addition to preparing and baking many of its products in-store, the deli has teamed up with award winning Welsh suppliers such as organic cheese manufacturer, Caws Cenarth, and the Patchwork Traditional Food Company, plus specializing in the award winning marinated olives from The Olive Queen.

FA M O U S F O R . . .

■ ■ ■ ■

The Delicatessen offers a fantastic variety of produce ranging from cheeses to salami's, home made freezer meals, cakes and desserts. Jayne also caters for special occasions. FA M O U S F O R . . . ■ ■ ■ ■

Delicious home-made cakes Scrumptious home-made desserts Flavoursome home-made quiches Wide selection of meats and cheeses

YO U L OV E D . . .

Fabulous home-made cakes, flavour packing pesto and jumbo olives.

Excellent cup of fresh coffee Friendly atmosphere, great service Quaint and charming surroundings Wide range of good quality produce

Award winning olives Home made faggots Home made quiches Selection of roast meats

YO U L OV E D . . .

Warm quiche and service with a smile.

Freshly baked olive breads (served hot).

“Jayne has a wealth of “A family business with experience and a passion a friendly atmosphere, for local produce and specialising in Italian good home cooking.” Lavazza coffee.” ❧ 65 ❧

“We might not be eating out as much, but fine food at home is still an option.”

THE LAST WORD We talk with Danny Willis, entrepreneur, businessman, curry afficianado, wine taster and super talented part-time boxer... even if he does say so himself! Best event in the Vale? If there’s a boxing show on, I’ll try to go along. I’m Chairman of Penarth ABC (www.penarthboxing.com) so I have a big interest in the sport. I’ve been involved with the gym for over twenty years. I have a great deal of respect for the work that the coach Neil Munn is doing there with his young boxers. He doesn’t get the recognition he deserves.

Danny, what do you do? I worked as a social worker for over fifteen years but I’m now a partner in a property services company with John Smith. We provide all aspects of building and management services to individuals, the domestic and commercial sectors. What do you like about the Vale? I’ve lived in the Vale all my life. I like the semi-rural feel of the county and the sense of community.

What’s missing from the Vale? I think we need more resources for children and teenagers. It’s easy to complain about kids but they rarely have the facilities they need. Penarth ABC is a classic example - we get little support for our efforts. If it wasn’t for the generous donations of time and cash from local businesses and individuals, the club would not have lasted as it has. I’m also on the committee of the Mini Rugby in Dinas Powys. This is a fine example of how putting in the right resources and also engaging the community can produce amazing results. We have a vibrant membership and nearly 200 children are now involved - the success is down to the commitment of the volunteers. I’m a great believer in people power.

Where is your favourite dining experience? I eat at The Glendale a lot in Penarth. It serves great Italian food and it’s family run. Also El Porto on Penarth Marina – it’s a Spanish style fish restaurant. My friends tell me I need to eat more fish! What’s your favourite meal? Italian food – all of it really. And I like curries, but you can’t tell from my physique. The Star of Wales in Canton is a favourite curry house of mine. Favourite place in the Vale? I live in Penarth and love the town but I must confess to having a soft spot for Cowbridge. My wife works there and we love the shops and market town ambience. I also love Southerndown – I take my two boys there – it’s a great place to chill out.

Favourite place to stay in Wales? Fourcroft in Tenby, a four star hotel. What do you do to relax? I don’t. I’m always busy doing something but I try to relax at the gym.

“I’ve lived in the Vale all my life. I like the semirural feel of the county.”

Do you have a pet hate? Wasted resources. Rude people and unfortunately there are too many of those about. Oh and lazy people.

“Putting in the right resources and also engaging the community produces amazing results.” Favourite music? Anything and everything; Oasis, Stereophonics... to be honest I listen to Radio 4 on in the car most of the time. Most memorable event? My boys being born and their first days in school. Sum yourself up in three words Slim, good-looking! I’m also a talented boxer... haha. What gadget do you most need? My mobile phone. I spend too much time and money on it but it’s impossible to function without it. Any lifelong ambition? To be successful but to be honest I just want to see my kids grow up and watch them make their way in life. I’m good at... Communicating and engaging with people... planning. Oh and nagging. I nag people a lot to get things done. I’m very bad at... Saying no to a curry. Saying no to a glass of good red wine. JSW Property Services ■ Construction Ynys Fach Yard ■ Ground Work Heol Y Ynys ■ Cleaning Taffs Well Services Cardiff CF15 7NT ■ Maintenance 029 2081 4419

Danny, left, with business partner John Smith at Ocho Lounge, Penarth

If you’d like to be featured or would like to promote your business in Last Word, please call Jennifer on 0845 130 6452 or email jennifer@valelife.co.uk

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